Decision details

The Chair informed the Committee that the two witnesses originally scheduled for the meeting were no longer able to attend due to work commitments and traffic problems. It was reported that the decision to review local post office services had been prompted by unsatisfactory answers to Member questions at a previous briefing on post offices in Stevenage.

The Strategic Director gave an update on the closure of the Waitrose Store in Stevenage High Streets and developments regarding the in-store post office. Members highlighted the huge demand for post office services in the Old Town area. Members also sought clarification on the timescale for the opening of a new post office in the Old Town area. The Committee suggested alternative solutions including:

·         Highlighting possible empty shop units that could be considered by the Post Office

·         Whether the Post Office would consider locating with other community or local service points such as Springfield House or Stevenage Old Town Library

·         Temporary post office facilities such as mobile units and portable cabins

In response to questions, the Strategic Director stated that:

• The Council had offered to liaise with Post Office Limited, local retail outlets and other stakeholders in efforts to share information to help inform the search for sites for post office services in the Old Town area

• The Council was actively liaising with stakeholders and sharing information where possible regarding the location and timescale for the opening of a new post office

• Feedback would be provided to the Post Office regarding the suggestions made by the Environment and Economy Committee in respect of possible locations for permanent and temporary uses. 

It was RESOLVED that the review of local post office services in Stevenage be revisited in future.