New hopes that town's post office can be saved

Residents had raised concerns earlier this year after the outlet on Church Street in Orrell announced it was due to close.

But a public consultation has now started over plans for a Post Office counter service to move into the new Costcutter store on nearby St James’s Road.

Ward councillor Mike Winstanley is encouraging residents to take part and said the proposals have his full backing for what he says is a key service for the town.

He told the Evening Post: “I have written to the Post Office giving my full support for these proposals.

“I would encourage all residents who would like to support these proposals to go onto the website and show their support.

“If residents can’t get online then please let me know and I will pass on your comments.

“In the summer of 2015 I wrote to object to the closure (of the Church Street branch) and asked if the services could be relocated to another business.

“I am delighted that this is now happening.

“This is great news for residents and is good news after all the recent loss of services.”

Coun Winstanley had previously complained about a recent potential “amenities drain” in Orrell following the decision in recent years to close the Royal Bank of Scotland branch in Church Street.

In a letter for the consultation, which closes on September 22, regional manager Simon Drinkwater states the proposed changes are earmarked for November or December of this year if approval is granted.

His statement reads: “Before we finalise our plans, we would really like to hear your views on the proposed location, particularly on the following areas; how suitable you think the new location and premises are and how easy it is to get there?

“Are the new premises easy for you to get into and is the inside easily accessible?

“Do you have any concerns about the new location? And if so, do you have any suggestions that could help us make it better for you?

“Plus Any local community issues which you think could be affected by the proposed move.”

In recent years Orrell has lost a number of other public facilities, including the library (although one did open at Lamberhead-based Abraham Guest Academy, and the local recycling centre.

To take part visit www.postofficeviews.co.uk