Peterborough Post Office could be shut under new plans

The closure plans are part of a national set of proposals from The Post Office, which would see around 40 Crown Post Offices, including the one in Cowagte in the city centre, shut, and services franchised out.

A Post Office spokesman said: “We have been talking to our people at a number of locations (around 40 across the UK) including Peterborough City Post Office branch, about the potential changes regarding their branch. It is absolutely right that they are the first people to be aware of these potential changes. When we have developed firm, detailed plans there will be a six week public consultation.

“We are seeking a suitable potential retail partner because we believe that franchising, which has been used successfully in other areas for many years, will secure services in the area for the future.”

The Communications Workers’ Union (CWU) have hit out at the proposals.

CWU assistant secretary Andy Furey said: “This is devastating news for our members. It is death by a thousand cuts. The proposals disregard the wealth of expertise, experience and sense of pride in public duty which is shared by Crown post office employees.”

He added: “The closure of Crown post offices will have negative economic and social effects on high streets – even if moved just 500 yards into the back of a newsagent – with the businesses left behind suffering and the area going into decline. The only thing driving this move is cuts to make profit.”

CWU deputy general secretary Terry Pullinger, (postal), said: “Tragically, this is yet another horrendous example of broken promises, irresponsible government and chronic mismanagement by the Post Office. The Post Office should never have been split from Royal Mail – natural synergies and public services have been sacrificed for greed and profit.”