Post Office finally set to reopen on Main Street
But new postmaster is not permanent
The long-running saga of Rutherglen’s lack of Post Office facilities is finally over – and it is set to reopen sometime this week.
Following six months of uncertainty, a new temporary postmaster has been appointed, after the owners of Superbuys newsagents took over the premises.
However, given this replacement postmaster is not a permanent role, it is possible the solution may not last.
The office unexpectedly closed in the spring, sparking a furious reaction from locals – including many pensioners who rely on the facility – and politicians.
Throughout the closure, the Post Office repeatedly refused to comment on the reasons behind the move, which added to the frustration for many.
Clare Haughey MSP, who campaigned relentlessly for the office to reopen, was pleased to hear the Main Street branch is once more operational.
She told the Reformer: “I am delighted for my constituents that the Post Office is to reopen. However, I share in the community’s frustrations at how lengthy this wait has been.
“Main Street is the heart of Rutherglen, and to be without a Post Office for so long has been unacceptable.
“Councillor Calikes and I have been in continual contact with Post Office Ltd during the past few months urging them to resolve the situation, so I am very pleased our pressure has finally paid off.”
Rutherglen Central & North councillor Janine Calikes added: “I am glad this saga is now nearing an end. However, it should not have taken six months for it to re-open.
“The community rallied together against the closure and I am sure that this news will be a relief locally.
“Post Office Ltd has advised that the replacement postmaster is only temporary, therefore I wish to reassure my constituents that we will remain in contact with the company to ensure we have a functioning Post Office for the long-term.”
Glasgow MSP James Kelly was also pleased at the news, but joined in the criticism of the Post Office over the delay.
He said: “It is welcome news that the Post Office has reopened but this has taken far too long. People have been left without this lifeline service for months and Post Office bosses have failed in basic communication on the matter.
“This should never happen again and serious answers must be given as to why Rutherglen was let down for so long.”
The Post Office did not respond to our request for comment.
Main Street is the heart of Rutherglen. To be without a Post Office for so long is unacceptable