CONTROVERSIAL plans to move Cwmbran's Post Office into the town's branch of WHSmith will go ahead, it was confirmed yesterday.
CONTROVERSIAL plans to move Cwmbran's Post Office into the town's branch of WHSmith will go ahead, it was confirmed yesterday.
After a six-week consultation, Post Office Ltd confirmed it will go ahead with the plans to safeguard the future of the service in the town.
The Crown branch in General Rees Square will close and relocate to WHSmith in The Mall from April 3.
A spokesman said WHSmith will manage the day-to-day operations with the full support and guidance of the Post Office to ensure the branch maintains service standards.
Similar moves in other towns across the UK have proved popular with customers, according to Post Office Ltd., but there was opposition from many residents in Cwmbran.
Campaigner and community councillor Vic Clayton said: "It's ridiculous, they are treating their customers with contempt.
"This move is not going to work. There's not enough room in WHSmith and customers are not going to be happy."
But WHSmith area manager Ian Rowley promised the move will work and the store will offer longer opening hours.
He said: "We will be providing the full range of Post Office services, alongside our own extensive product offer, from our store located in the heart of Cwmbran's shopping area.
At a time when so many branches face an uncertain future, this is good news for Post Office customers in Cwmbran."
Article first appeared on Pontypool Free Press Website|
Cwmbrans Post Office will be based in WH Smith from April 3