Outrage at plan to build flats on site of post office

[TrueBlueTerrier]

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A SUB-post office is under threat of closure because developers want to build a block of flats on the site.

The Post Office and General Stores on the corner of Prince Avenue and Queen Anne’s Drive, Westcliff, is regarded as a lifeline by many older residents.

But Mike Grimwade, Lib Dem councillor for Prittlewell, said he was shocked and horrified when he saw a planning application to build on the site.

He said he understood the postmistress herself had not even been consulted about the proposals.

Mr Grimwade said: “I couldn’t believe my eyes and I was shocked when I saw this application and the impact which it could have on the community.

“In an era when residents and local councillors are fighting sub-post office closures by the Post Office itself, it is sad to find there are developers who will do it for them.

“It is even sadder rather than replace one facility by another, they are only interested in building a block of flats.”

He added: “Closure would be a disaster for many older residents who use one of the few remaining sub-post offices in the area.”

Lib Dem group leader Graham Longley said he had spoken with the developers and understood it was not intended to include a similar facility in the new development.

Post Office spokesman James Taylor said he was not aware of the situation at Prince Avenue, but would seeking further information. At the time of going to press, no one from the Post Office responded to the Echo’s inquiries.