Festive crisis looms after postmaster quits
POST Office users in Kilmacolm could be left unable to access ‘vital’ services in the lead up to the busy Christmas period with the current postmaster stepping down.
Concerned users of the branch contacted the Telegraph after it emerged that the village’s temporary postmaster had resigned his lease.
A Post Office spokesperson today confirmed that they were speaking to a retailer ‘interested’ in running the branch and apologised for any inconvenience caused by temporary closures.
MP Ronnie Cowan says he has been in touch with Post Office bosses about the issue - and was optimistic about the future of Kilmacolm and Port Glasgow’s branches.
He said: “The Post Office is absolutely vital for Kilmacolm and I will take all measures available to ensure its future success.
“The current postmaster is there on a temporary basis.
“I have had discussions with the Post Office at national level on this and I have been told that a potential new agent is currently going through the application process.
“While this is very encouraging, I am aware that the current lease runs out on December 18, so a swift and successful transition is what is needed.
“The best scenario is that vital Post Office services seamlessly remain in place.
“Access to cash is essential for our smaller communities and in particular, our elderly constituents.
“And the Post Office also provides a range of services that form the beating heart of our communities.
“I have had similar talks with the Post Office in relation to Port Glasgow and I am very hopeful this branch will be able to reopen soon.”
Post Office bosses said the temporary postmaster at Kilmacolm resigned his lease due to its imminent expiry. Their spokesperson added: “His leaving date is currently being finalised.
“We have advertised the vacancy.
“We have an interested retailer who is applying to operate the branch.
“We apologise for any inconvenience caused by the temporary closure and we are working hard to try to restore service as soon as possible.
“In the interim alternative branches include Park Farm, Dubbs Road and Bridge of Weir.”