Royal Mail: Postal delays affecting St Albans and Harpenden

Recent data exposed that just 82.8 per cent of first-class deliveries in AL postcodes and 76.1 per cent in HP postcodes, were delivered on time in 2024/25 – well below their target of 93 per cent.

St Albans MP Daisy Cooper and MP for Harpenden and Berkhamsted Victoria Collins have been “repeatedly” raising delays with Royal Mail on behalf of constituents, and called on postal regulator Ofcom to step in.

(Image: Ollie Cotena) News breaks, as Ofcom announced it would allow Royal Mail to abandon second-class deliveries on a Saturday, and cut them back throughout the week.

MP Cooper said: “St Albans residents in Marshalswick, Jersey Farm and Hill End have been telling me about serious issues they’re already experiencing with getting Royal Mail deliveries on time, including time sensitive documents.

“Residents are understandably sick of this poor service disrupting their daily lives so Ofcom’s decision just adds insult to injury.

“Our posties are doing an absolutely fantastic job, but Royal Mail bosses must be held to account – they can’t be let off the hook.”

MP Collins suggested disruptions remain a “common occurrence” in the district.

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MP for Berkhamsted and Harpenden Victoria Collins. (Image: St Albans Liberal Democrats) “It’s completely unacceptable that the issue is set to worsen, as Ofcom allows Royal Mail to cut down on postal services,” she added.

“There’s a clear need for greater accountability for those at the top of Royal Mail, who are presiding over disruption and missed targets whilst posties across the country work hard to ensure we get our post as soon as possible.

“Rather than endorsing delays by cutting down on delivery days, Ofcom should be working hard to ensure Royal Mail fulfils its obligations and provides the service that residents deserve and expect.”

Both MPs have signed a Liberal Democrat letter bringing these nationwide issues with Royal Mail’s performance to the attention of the relevant government minister, and calling for the government to work with Royal Mail and Ofcom to improve the service.

A Royal Mail spokesperson said: “We are sorry to any customers who have experienced delays to their letters.

“We know how important reliable deliveries are, particularly when they involve time-sensitive items.

“Our teams work hard every day to serve their communities, and we are taking targeted action to improve performance in areas where service has fallen short.”