Post Office defends Viewpark closure

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POST Office bosses have confirmed their decision to axe services at Burnhead Post Office in Viewpark — but insisted they had taken views of protestors into account despite previously admitting the decision had already been taken in principle before their consultation process began.

A statement issued by Post Office Ltd (Scotland) announced that the firm was going ahead with its proposal to move services currently provided at the Market Square office to the Spar store run by Botterill's in Old Edinburgh Road.

Last week MSP Alex Neil hit out after being told by the firm in writing that the decision had already been taken 'in principle' and that the consultation was to allow customers to gauge how the switch would affect them.

But while opponents have branded the consultation a sham, the Post Office said that the relocation to new premises a 'short distance' away had only been finally agreed after feedback had been reviewed.

The firm's statement said: "Post Office Ltd believes the new agent and the new location offer the opportunity to create a secure and sustainable future for the provision of Post Office services to the local community.

"During the public consultation Post Office Ltd met with local representatives including Tom Clarke MP and North Lanarkshire Council leader Jim McCabe and listened carefully to their feedback on behalf of the community."

Full story in July 15 edition of Bellshill Speaker