Cllr Gareth Ratcliffe calls for urgent review of rural Post Office viability

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https://www.brecon-radnor.co.uk/news/cl ... ity-884035

Cllr Gareth Ratcliffe has written to the Minister for Services, Small Business and Exports, Gareth Thomas, urging the Government to review the long-term sustainability of rural Post Offices in light of continued service reductions and the shift to digital delivery.

Cllr Ratcliffe has expressed concern that over the past two decades there has been a steady erosion of services provided through local branches. Historically, Post Offices handled a wide range of government and financial transactions, including vehicle tax, bill payments, cheque deposits and passport services. Many of these have now been reduced, restricted or moved entirely online.

“While digital services have their place, the cumulative effect of removing transactions from the counter has significantly reduced income for small and rural branches,” said Cllr Ratcliffe. “Every service that is withdrawn takes footfall and revenue away from businesses that already operate on tight margins.”

He also highlighted that although Post Offices have taken on additional banking services following high street bank closures, the remuneration for these transactions is limited. “These are often high-volume, cash-heavy services that increase workload and operational risk but do not provide a sustainable financial return,” he added.

Cllr Ratcliffe warned that the impact is particularly acute in rural communities, where the Post Office is often a vital hub supporting older residents, those without reliable internet access, and small local businesses.

“In many towns and villages, the Post Office is more than just a counter service — it is a cornerstone of community life. When a branch closes, it weakens the social and economic fabric of the area,” he said.

In his letter, Cllr Ratcliffe has called for a comprehensive assessment of the cumulative impact of service withdrawals on branch viability. He is urging the Government to consider fairer remuneration for banking services, the introduction of sustainable replacement income streams, or direct support mechanisms that recognise the essential role rural Post Offices play.

“Without meaningful intervention, we risk further closures and the gradual hollowing out of rural infrastructure,” he said. “Rural communities deserve a model that ensures their Post Offices remain viable and sustainable for the future.”