MP's fears as Yate Post Office faces franchise future with no public say

[POSTMAN]

https://www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk/n ... e-10094616

MP Claire Young fights to save a vital service amid fears of closures hidden behind corporate rebrands

The future of Yate’s Crown Post Office has been stamped with uncertainty after it was revealed the branch could soon be handed over to a private franchise. Thornbury and Yate MP Claire Young has criticised the move, warning that it risks leaving communities like Yate without essential postal services.

The announcement, made by the Post Office, confirmed that all 115 Crown branches, including the one in Yate, will be transitioned into new franchises. Claire described the decision as “deeply disappointing” and condemned the lack of public consultation.

She said: “I am deeply disappointed that, after months of speculation, Post Office bosses have decided to offload all Crown Post Offices, including the one in Yate, without a full public consultation.”

While the shift to a fully franchised model may stave off immediate closures, Claire warned that it does not eliminate the long-term threat of losing local branches altogether.

“Moving to a fully franchised model, instead of pursuing outright closures, will give some areas a welcome reprieve. However, it does not mean we will not see closures coming down the track,” she added.

Claire also raised concerns over the stability of franchised branches, pointing to examples of post offices being relocated to high street stores such as WHSmith, only for those stores to later close—resulting in a double loss for the community.

“The focus now must be on ensuring these new franchises are properly supported. We have seen elsewhere in the country Post Offices moving into shops like WHSmith, and those shops later closing – resulting in the loss of both. I hope securing the long-term future will be reflected in the public engagement for Yate,” she said.

Having held several meetings with the Post Office before the announcement, Claire now plans to urgently seek a follow-up meeting to present her petition and press for local voices to be heard.

“Having met several times with the Post Office before this announcement, I will now be seeking a follow-up meeting urgently to discuss what this means for Yate, present my local petition to keep Yate Post Office open, and ensure the local community have their chance to get involved.”

Her petition to save the Yate branch has already gathered more than 1,300 signatures and is available at claireyoung.org.uk/yate-post-office.

[NWpostie]

I wouldn't worry as no one will take on a toxic brand.