13-mile bus rides to collect post

[TrueBlueTerrier]

http://www.southmanchesterreporter.co.u ... llect_post" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;



RESIDENTS could face a 13 mile bus ride to pick up their post under delivery changes, according to union leaders.

Communication Workers Union (CWU) officials say Royal Mail workers in Fallowfield have been told that half the staff at the delivery office may be moved to another office in Old Trafford.

That would mean anyone living in the M14 area – Fallowfield, Ladybarn, Moss Side and Rusholme – who gets a card through their door for undelivered mail could have to go to the office on Norton Street, Old Trafford, to collect it. For those who don’t drive, that could mean a bus trip into Manchester and another to Old Trafford and back again – making a round trip of 13 miles.

Royal Mail bosses would not comment on plans for Fallowfield’s Granville Road office, other than to say reviews of the delivery operations were regularly undertaken. But a spokesman added that consultation would take place with trade unions and residents before any changes were implemented.

MP John Leech is also against it. He said: "It’s ridiculous and completely unacceptable. For people who don't have their own car and have to use public transport this could pose all sorts of problems, as the Old Trafford office is not easily accessible. The Granville Road office is incredibly busy and always has long queues and serves a large sector of the community."

The Reporter understands around 15,000 homes would be affected. The proposals are not expected to affect those living within the M20 postcode of Withington, Didsbury and some parts of Northenden.

Malcolm Dobson, of the CWU, said: "If this happens it would be mayhem for customers and workers. I’ve spoken to senior managers who say they are doing a feasibility study and that nothing is set in concrete yet."

"Customers could be travelling for miles and with long queues anyway at delivery offices, they could then be having to wait for hours at the Old Trafford office."

[misterbryn]

Royal Mail bosses would not comment on plans for Fallowfield’s Granville Road office, other than to say reviews of the delivery operations were regularly undertaken. But a spokesman added that consultation would take place with trade unions and residents before any changes were implemented.

Going against company policy

[eddieb]

we have already had a mneeting about this,told it will be happening in february