POLICE are prepared to send officers as back-up support for postmen delivering mail to a traveller site and nearby homes.
But Royal Mail has snubbed the offer of a twice-weekly plain-clothes escort during postal rounds at the Hovefields Drive site, in Wickford.
The postal service was axed in May 2005, after a post man was shot in the leg with an airgun.
Residents and travellers have had to collect their mail from the Wickford sorting office ever since.
Billericay MP John Baron, who has been campaigning for its reinstatement, called talks between Royal Mail, the police and residents.
He said: "Hovefields must not be a no-go area.
"It is now the only spot in Essex where post is not delivered. Police have even offered to provide a plain-clothed escort twice a week, but Royal Mail refuses to deliver."
In a letter to Mr Baron Royal Mail argued the area was too risky for its staff, referring to an incident involving a member of the public being attacked by two dogs.
Supt Glenn Caton confirmed the offer was still available, but stressed he felt it was unusual and unecessary.
He said: "It was offered as a trial, whenever possible, to see if it worked out. I do not believe it is necessary, but in order to reassure residents and postmen we would provide support.
"We are disappointed with the Royal Mail response and even more so for the residents."
Royal Mail spokesman James Taylor said: "The safety and security of our postal staff will always come first.
"The incident involving dogs was witnessed by two managers, carrying out a health and safety assessment, only a matter of weeks ago.
"This assessment noted the extremely poor road condition, lack of foothpath and street lighting.
"The origin of this issue relates to an incident in which one of our people was shot at with an air rifle.
"We are extremely grateful to the offer of police assistance for this.
"But it is subject to availability and not six days a week when deliveries take place."
http://www.echo-news.co.uk/news/local/d ... osties.php
