News story

26th September 2003

MP Slams "Sham" Consultation over Gillingstool Post Office Closure

Northavon MP Steve Webb has reacted angrily to news that the Post Office is to press ahead with plans to close Gillingstool Post Office in Thornbury. The MP, who had written to the Post Office to register his objection to the proposal, has today been notified in writing that the closure will be permanent with effect from 1st November. The letter from the Post Office, which appears to be a lightly customised version of a standard letter, says “we believe the area to be well served by local Post Office branches”.

Commenting, Steve Webb said:

“It is hard to believe that the so-called “consultation” about the closure of Gillingstool Post Office was not a complete sham. The Post Office was clearly determined to close this sub post office, and the powerful arguments presented to them by local residents have clearly cut no ice. For older people and those with disabilities in particular, a local post office can be a real lifeline. The Post Office should be seeking new owners to run Gillingstool Post Office instead of letting it close”.

The Post Office confirmed that they had received two petitions from customers and a number of letters from local residents, in addition to representations by Steve Webb MP. For those with cars, the letter argues that there is plenty of parking in the vicinity, but it is forced to admit that there is no public transport link for those who live near Oakleaze
Road to get them to the alternative Post Office in the High Street.