Postal workers strike over proposals to franchise Keighley

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Postal workers strike in protests over proposals to franchise Keighley branch

Keighley’s main post office would probably close down if it became a franchise, said a member of the Communication Workers Union (CWU).

David Bowmaker, territorial representative for the CWU, believes partnering the Towngate branch with a retailer would be a nail in its coffin.

He was talking to the Telegraph & Argus after taking part in strike action outside the branch on Saturday over closures, jobs and pay.

“We were petitioning against plans to franchise Keighley post office,” said Mr Bowmaker. “There was fantastic support from the public and we got around 500 signatures in only two-and-a-half hours.”

He added: “This is just the start of the campaign – there’s much more to come.”

Staff from the Keighley post office stood alongside Mr Bowmaker as they picketed early on Saturday. They started gathering petition signatures from 9.30am.

“We were talking to the public, explaining our position and asking them to support it,” said Mr Bowmaker.

“There are 13 CWU members working at this post office and all of our members supported the strike action.

“I thought it was tremendously successful. What buoyed everyone who took part was the response from the public – they understood what was at stake.”

Mr Bowmaker said the staff at the Keighley post office had 260 years of experience between them, and added: “You cannot replace that. When things go wrong, you rely on people like that to fall back on.”

Mr Bowmaker was also concerned about the impact on the community, saying: “These decisions are being made in London, and they don’t realise what impact it would have on the community.

“It’s not just about the people who use the post office, it’s also about the businesses round here that get trade off the back of it. All these local businesses could miss out.”

The T&A previously reported that Keighley post office was losing money and that its future was under review.

Post Office bosses said a partner retailer was being sought to ensure the long-term viability of the Towngate branch, but also pledged that the company would not close the service.