My Conservative Association and I ran a campaign on the proposed closure of the Post Office branch on Hornchurch High Street when the proposal was first mooted by the Post Office in summer 2017. We collected about 1000 signatures and I arranged to present the petition to the Post Office and we had a wider discussion about how to prevent any closure and at least keep any services in a town centre location.
They have unfortunately now advised us that they wish to press ahead with closure so my team compiled a submission to put to their consultation on this and included residents' comments.
I am afraid that they nonetheless emailed me this week to say that the closure will definitely be going ahead and have shared the details of the nearest alternative branches. I paste what they sent below. You might also be interested to read the letter sent by Business Minister, Kelly Tolhurst, this week about the Post Office.
POST OFFICE CHANGE IN HORNCHURCH
- Hornchurch Post Office to close
- Three alternative branches within one mile offering Post Office services
Following a period of local public consultation and careful consideration, we have made the decision to proceed with the proposal to close Hornchurch Post Office located at 127-129 High Street, Hornchurch, RM11 1UB.
Following the closure, the area will be served by three alternative branches, all located within one mile of the current location, including North Street Post Office (0.3miles away – open 7 days a week), Station Lane Post Office (0.3 miles away) and Minster Lane Post Office (0.7 miles away – open 7 days a week).
Customers will be able to access a wide range of Post Office services at all the alternative branches, including everyday banking for the UK’s high street banks, online shopping returns and collections and foreign exchange.
Roger Gale, Network and Sales director, said:
“It is clear that the Post Office plays an important part in the lives of our customers living and working in this area of the city, and we want to make our services as accessible as possible. Without doubt, the Post Office has a special position in the community. I am confident that the remaining branches in the area will meet customer needs both now and in the future, ensuring residents have continued access to Post Office services while delivering an excellent service. We are making sure we take the right action to sustain services for years to come.”
-Ends-
Alternative branches in the area
North Street Post Office
Address
92 North Street
Hornchurch
RM11 1SR
Post Office Opening
Hours
Mon - Sat
09:00 – 23:00
Sun
10:00 – 22:30
Distance
Approximately 0.3 miles away from Hornchurch Post Office branch, along varied terrain.
Access and facilities
There is a wide door and a ramp at the entrance of the branch. A low level serving counter and hearing loops are available.
Transport/Parking
Roadside parking is available nearby. Public transport services are available to and from the surrounding area.
Station Lane Post Office
Address
89 Station Lane
Hornchurch
RM12 6JU
Post Office Opening
hours
Mon - Wed
09:00 – 22:00
Thurs - Sat
09:00 – 23:00
Sun
Closed
Distance
Approximately 0.3 miles away from Hornchurch Post Office branch, along varied terrain.
Access and facilities
There is a wide door and level access at the entrance of the branch. A low level serving counter and hearing loops are available.
Transport/Parking
Pay & display roadside parking is available nearby. Public transport services are available to and from the surrounding area.
Minster Parade Post Office
Address
103 Upminster Road
Hornchurch
RM11 3XB
Post Office Opening
hours
Mon - Fri
06:00 – 20:00
Sat
07:00 – 20:00
Sun
07:00 – 17:00
Distance
Approximately 0.7 miles away from Hornchurch Post Office branch, along varied terrain.
Access and facilities
There is a wide door, steps and a ramp with hand rail at the entrance of the branch.
A low level serving counter and hearing loops are available.
Transport/Parking
Pay & display roadside parking is available nearby. Public transport services are available to and from the surrounding area.