Clapham campaign grows to keep Post Office in dedicated building

A community campaign has been launched to oppose plans to relocate Clapham’s historic High Street Post Office into a nearby convenience store, with Bedford mayor Tom Wootton and councillors backing residents’ concerns.

The Post Office is currently consulting on proposals to move the branch into Clapham Discount Food & Wine on the High Street, following the resignation of the current postmaster.

But villagers say the new location is unsuitable and threatens the future of a service that has been part of the community for over 100 years.

“The current premises are accessible, spacious, and familiar to local residents,” said one campaigner.

“The proposed shop location is completely unsuitable, particularly for elderly or disabled users, and would remove privacy and dignity for people handling pensions or sensitive documents.”

Nish, who has run the Post Office for years and is well-known in the village, has expressed a willingness to remain in the post and continue providing services at the current site. Residents say decision-makers have so far ignored his offer.

Mayor Wootton (Conservative) visited the existing Post Office today (Sunday) and met with postmaster Nish, who has offered to continue operating the service from its current dedicated building. “Clapham is a large and growing village,” said the mayor.

“It needs a proper Post Office facility. This is a clear case where existing Borough-owned assets can be used more effectively to support local services.”

Parish Council chair, Phillipa Simms, confirmed that councillors had formally resolved to oppose the move after hearing concerns from residents.

She said issues raised include a lack of nearby parking, cramped access, and inadequate space within the proposed new site.

Liberal Democrat cllr for Clapham and Oakley, Jon Abbott, also raised concerns via posts on social media.

“This will impact residents as the proposed premises has less dedicated parking, no dedicated disabled parking and facilities will be shared with the general business,” he said.

“As the Post Office and Royal Mail try to drive more business online, Post Offices are vital to those who can’t access these digital services.”

Local residents are being urged to respond to the consultation, which closes on Thursday, 6 June.

To see the full details and respond to the proposals, visit the Post Office website. Comments can also be sent by email to comments@postoffice.co.uk

Mayor Wootton added, “This is not just about a building. It’s about keeping vital services accessible, local, and responsive to community needs.”