Proposals could see Royal Mail cut Saturday services and alternate weekday deliveries

The MP for North Devon has slammed proposals that would allow Royal Mail to cut second-class post deliveries, including scrapping Saturday services and reducing weekday deliveries to alternating days. 

He warned that small businesses will be “dismayed” by the plans.

Last week, Ofcom proposed changes to the obligations on Royal Mail, which include Second Class letters being delivered on alternate weekdays, not on Saturdays.

The regulatory body also proposed that First Class remain six days a week, and the price cap on Second Class stamps continue. 

These proposals will need to be consulted on before implementation takes place.

In response to this proposal, Ian Roome, North Devon’s Liberal Democrat MP, has raised concerns that weakening the Universal Service Obligation would hit rural areas the hardest, where alternative delivery options are limited. 

He stressed that many residents rely on Royal Mail for essential services, from receiving medical appointment details and managing finances to staying connected with loved ones. He also highlighted growing complaints from residents in Ilfracombe and Combe Martin about worsening postal delays, with some waiting weeks for their deliveries.

The Gazette understands that many postal workers in North Devon feel demoralised by the current situation. 

Reports suggest that local offices are understaffed and staff are being directed to prioritise parcels over letters, leading to delays in important correspondence, including hospital appointments.

Commenting on the news, Ian Roome said: “This is a slap in the face for all those who rely on the post. Many residents in North Devon will be disappointed about the prospect of cuts to postal services after facing years of ever-rising costs due to mismanagement by Royal Mail executives. A reliable postal service in North Devon is essential for all of us, but particularly for rural businesses and those waiting for important NHS appointments.

“Our posties are the unsung heroes of our community – they were rushed off their feet during Christmas, and it was they who stepped up during COVID to deliver medicines and test kits. We must not forget this.

“Many small businesses in North Devon will also be dismayed by this news. They have already had to endure a crippling National Insurance hike, and this would add even more pressure on them.

“We cannot let standards slip even further by lowering delivery targets instead of actually fixing our postal services. These recommendations must be urgently reconsidered.”

In response, Emma Gilthorpe, Chief Executive Officer of Royal Mail, said: “Ofcom has recognised the urgent need for change so that the future of the Universal Service can be protected for all.

“Our proposal was developed after speaking to thousands of people across the country and is designed to preserve what matters most for our customers – maintaining a one-price-goes-anywhere service to 32 million UK addresses and First Class deliveries six days a week.

“As Ofcom’s analysis shows, it is no longer financially sustainable to maintain a network built for 20 billion letters when we are now only delivering 6.7 billion. Reform is crucial to support a modern, sustainable, and reliable postal service for our customers, our company, and our people.”