THE Post Office has announced plans to offload 108 of its directly owned branches, including the counter in Redditch.
Subject to Government funding, the last branches which are operated by the Post Office will be franchised by the autumn.
This means that those communities that currently have a Directly Managed Branch in their area will continue to be able to access Post Office services either at, or near to, the same location.
The Post Office confirmed in November that the future of its directly managed branch network would be under review and could face closure.
Alongside Redditch MP Chris Bloore, the Standard launched a campaign and petition to save the branch, with more than 250 signatures.
Mr Bloore thanked the public for their support throughout the campaign.
“Redditch Post Office is to our community and why it is vital that this service exists in our town centre.
“Subject to additional government investment, the Post Office has announced all the directly managed branches of the Post Office are to remain open as part of a fully franchised network.
“There are still questions to be answered about who the franchising partner could be, and we urgently need clarification on the role of existing trained employees in this transition and the services that will be provided by a franchised Post Office.
“I will continue to work with staff, unions and the Post Office to ensure this vital service continues to serve our needs.”
Nigel Railton, Post Office Chair, said: “Moving to a fully franchised network is one part of enabling the Post Office to deliver a ‘New Deal for Postmasters’, helping to create a long-term, sustainable future for the Post Office.
“By franchising these branches, we are protecting access to our services for communities right across the UK and realising £40 million worth of savings that will enable us to uplift postmasters’ remuneration by up to 10 per cent.
“Over the coming months, we will continue to work with our unions to ensure that we treat our staff working in these 108 branches with care and respect through this transition, consulting with them on proposed changes.
“The 108 Post Offices will either stay in the same location where possible or be located close to the existing location, meaning customers will continue to have access to a full suite of products and services.”
