Post office move axed after residents speak

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A PLAN to move a post office almost a mile away from its current location has been scrapped, after residents complained it would be too far for elderly and disabled residents to walk.

Last year, the Post Office launched a public consultation over its plans to move the postal service in Woodland Avenue, Hutton, to Rayleigh Road.

But it this week announced a U-turn over its plans, after opposition from about 70 residents, public figureheads, and the Citizen’s Advice Bureau.

The organisation is now looking to set up shop next door, in the Co- Op food store.


Hutton councillor John Kerslake, also deputy leader of Brentwood Council, said he was pleased the Post Office listened to residents.

He explained: “From my understanding there were about 60 or 70 people who responded to the Post Office during consultation.

“The facility is important for the elderly and disabled people in the area.

“A mile would have been too long a way for them to walk.

“I’m glad the Post Office has listened to residents this time around, and hopefully the new proposed site will be more suit - able.”

The relocation comes as part of the Post Office’s programme of re - furbishment, which is being rolled out across the country.

Speaking after the U-turn, a Post Office spokesman said: “During the period of a public consultation, we received a number of responses from customers and local representatives against the proposed move.

"Citizens Advice also expressed significant concerns due to the distance from the current location.

“After careful consideration we decided not to proceed with the proposal.”

A new public consultation will run until Tuesday, July 19, and residents can air their views online at postofficeviews.co.uk.

If the plans go ahead, the post office will change into a modern open-plan branch with longer opening hours.

The spokesman said: “The majority of Post Office products and services will still be available.”