Post Office Decision - Good News For Town Centres

3.44.40pm BST (GMT +0100) Fri 18th May 2007

Amidst the uncertainty surrounding the future of Cornwall's Post Office network, local MP, Julia Goldsworthy has welcomed the news that the Crown Post Offices in Redruth and Camborne will continue to be owned and directly managed by Post Office Ltd.

The announcement follows recent trials, held across the country, to merge some Post Offices with private retail outlets, often resulting in a reduced service.

However, hundreds of the remaining Post Offices across Cornwall continue to face an uncertain future, as Ministers consider the results of the consultation process which concluded in March. Under the Government's proposals, announced last year, over 2000 Post Offices would have to close.

Commenting, Julia Goldsworthy MP said:

"This announcement will come as welcome news - not least to those employed by the two Post Offices in Camborne and Redruth. The flagship Post Offices are essential in attracting people to our town centres and many local businesses will be relieved that their future is, for now, secure.

"The Government must now respond to the consultation so that local postmasters can gauge a better idea of what the future holds. I will continue to urge the Government to look beyond the economic bottom line and recognise how important the Post Office is to the local community."