Post Office says it’s working hard to keep service
THE Post Office has claimed it is “working hard” to ensure it maintains a service in a Cardiff suburb.
It comes as the Co-op prepares to open its newest store at Pontcanna Stores, in Pontcanna Street, near its junction with Cathedral Road.
The venue will be the supermarket’s second store within 300m, as it already has a store on Kings Road.
In March, residents began a campaign against the changes.
Initially, planning documents showed the post office would remain a part of the new store, but it was later announced this would not be the case.
Speaking at the time, a spokesman for the Co-op said: “We were keen to maintain a service however, following discussions, it has not been viable to retain a post office which offers the counters and services which the Post Office deems necessary.”
The Co-op said that had been an error in the planning permission and the Post Office says it is still working to ensure a local facility is available.
Riverside Labour Councillor Iona Gordon set up a petition in July calling for the post office to remain a part of the premises.
She said: “I understand from the sub postmaster that the Pontcanna post office and general store will close on January 15 and the Co-op takes over the premises a few days later to fit it out.
“The post office is so popular and well used by everyone.”
She said there were concerns that a lot of the services to be offered in the new store were already on offer at other local shops.
A spokeswoman for the Post Office said: “We understand and appreciate how much communities rely on Post Office services, and are working hard to find an alternative way of ensuring services are maintained for the local community after the retirement of the current postmaster in Pontcanna.
“Any retailer or small business owner interested in running the Post Office and incorporating it into their business should ring 0845 266 8790 and talk to an advisor or email NTquestions@postoffice.co. uk or visit www.runapostoffice.co. uk.”