Future of Whitstable Post Office unclear says MP

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Canterbury MP Julian Brazier met with Royal Mail chiefs today to discuss the future of the Whitstable Post Office.

With a new sorting office due to open early next year in Maidstone, it has meant the closure of a number of local branches - including that of the sorting office in Whitstable.

Previously, Royal Mail assured customers in the town that an alternate plan would be put in place to collect parcels from the local post office if postmen were unable to deliver them.

Mr Brazier’s meeting follows the withdrawal of Royal Mail’s guarantee.

The MP said the future of Whitstable Post Office is unclear, as its lease has expired and the landlord has decided to redevelop the site.

He said: “Frankly, it is astonishing that this communication breakdown between the Post Office and Royal Mail could have occurred.

“Royal Mail has proposed two main options for undeliverable parcels: delivery to a neighbour, or redelivery to the addressee later.

“There is also the option of having your parcel delivered to another Post Office to pick up for £1.50.

“In other nearby areas where sorting offices have closed recently, Royal Mail has assured me that over 90 percent of participants were satisfied with the service they received using these options.

“The Post Office made it clear that they have no intention of abandoning central Whitstable and they will maintain an office, even if in temporary premises, until a new permanent facility is built.”