Bids made for Whitstable post office franchise

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THE future of Whitstable’s Crown Post Office remains uncertain after news emerged that two interested bidders in a franchise for the town have come forward.

In an official letter, post office staff were informed that the parties – believed to be Budgens and the yet-to-be built Morrisons supermarkets – are now in the running to take on services.

In a statement, a post office spokesman said that “a number” of potential retail partners have expressed interest in taking on the post office in the town.

He added that no decision had been made and a local public consultation would be conducted once a franchise partner was identified.

Brian Hitcham, president of the Whitstable Chamber of Commerce, said if a franchise does open it would mean shutting the Crown Post Office in Gladstone Road, a move he described as “the kiss of death” for the town.

He said a move into a smaller premises would mean, most likely, less than the current five counters being available, long queues and increased waiting times.

Councillor James Flanagan, who is the Liberal Democrat Parliamentary representative for Whitstable, chaired a public meeting last year on the issue, giving residents the chance to put their views to officials from the post office.

He said he had written to the Communication Workers Union proposing another meeting be held.


He said: “I am very worried about the potential loss of the Crown Post Office and its services.”

Resident and campaigner Julie Wassmer led public demonstrations against the closure of the sorting office, which was moved to Canterbury, last year.

She said: “We require a public meeting as soon as possible, to discuss openly what has not been made transparent so far for our community.”

She said residents were informed by the post office last year that if no suitable franchise came forward, the Crown Post Office would have to stay in place.

The CWU said it would oppose any move to close the main site.

Peter Meech, representing the union, said:: “We would rather a Crown Post Office than a franchise, so we will carry on campaigning to keep the Crown Post Office open in Whitstable.”