Councillor's concerns over mail depot closure

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A Dundee councillor has met Royal Mail officials to voice concerns about the proposed closure of a busy city centre post depot.

West End councillor Fraser Macpherson organised the meeting after controversial plans were announced to relocate the city centre Crichton Street base to the Dundee Central delivery office, in Edward Street, and the Dundee West, in Baird Avenue.

Angry West End residents have claimed the move — which would take place after March — would mean some people would have to travel to an area with poor public transport links to collect their post.

Mr Macpherson, who met Royal Mail representatives on Tuesday, said, "The meeting was constructive because I got the opportunity to put across the concerns that many of my constituents have about the plans.

"Although the Edward Street depot is handy for some West End residents in the Blackness/Milnbank area, for many West End residents it is not a convenient location.

"It is not an easy walk for an elderly person travelling by bus due to the hilly walk from the bus stops.

"Out of all four offices they have in Dundee, Crichton Street is at the best location and is the most public-friendly."

Royal Mail announced the closure of the postal depot this month, claiming that an increase in online shopping and parcel deliveries means the office in Crichton Street is no longer fit for purpose.

A Royal Mail spokeswoman said, "Planning is at a very early stage, with any move not taking place until March 2011.

"The opening times at the Dundee West and Dundee Central delivery offices will mirror those at the Crichton Street office.

"Anyone who does not have a car can have their parcels redelivered to their homes on a date that is convenient for them or delivered to a nearby Post Office branch or another address within the same postcode area."