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The new branch will open in The Malls on Wednesday, October 1 at 1pm, near The Anvil and former Wilko store, restoring vital services to the town.
The town centre was left without a Post Office in February after the former branch, which was located in WHSmith, closed.
Residents were told they wouldn’t have to wait long for a replacement branch to open, with a date set for April 30. However, logistical issues raised by Royal Mail about the collection and delivery of parcels delayed the opening.
The issue was resolved, with a new date set for July 9, which was pushed back more than a month by the Post Office to August 11.
The Gazette contacted the company to verify the date after a reader, Roy Venkatesh, sent in a photo of the empty unit days before it was planned to open.
‘Unforeseen circumstances’ was the reason given by the Post Office for the delay, and a new date of October 1 was set for the opening.
The Post Office apologised to residents but said it could not elaborate further on the reasons behind the postponement, adding: “We are working with the appointment postmaster to restore service to the community as soon as possible.”
Now, a spokesperson for the Post Office has confirmed that the opening is still on track for October 1.
Signs have also been placed in the window of the unit, reading: “Following the delayed opening of this Post Office, we are pleased to let you know that your new branch will open on Wednesday, October 1, at 1pm.
“We hope that you will enjoy using the new Post Office.”
The new branch will provide the same ‘wide range’ of services as those offered in the former location, with one full-screened counter and two open-plan counters.
It will be run by an experienced Postmaster and will include a card, stationery and gift store.
Opening hours are expected to remain the same as before, from 9am to 5.30pm, Monday to Saturday.
