Concerns have been raised over the relocation of the Post Office in Newtownhamilton.
The Post Office is planning on moving it from its current location inside the Mace store on Dundalk Street to the old McGarvey’s shop on the same street.
While the move would constitute only a shift of a mere 50 metres on the opposite side of the street, there are fears around accessibility.
Sinn Féin Councillor Barra O’Muiri said there are several issues, including parking on Dundalk Street, disability access and a failure to publicly advertise the proposed move.
“I only found out in an email from the Post Office, where there should be posters up about town advising people of the consultation period,” he said.
“Many people are worried about such a move. I think it is perfectly fine where it is at present, with ample parking and disability access, and I have stated so in the consultation. I urge you all to fill it in too and have your say on the future of the Post Office in Newtown.”
The Post Office say they are proposing the move because the “postmaster has identified an opportunity to move this branch into a brighter, more modern premises, located on the same road nearby”.
“The new premises, which are currently empty, would undergo a full refurbishment. The postmaster firmly believes that the move would help secure continued access to Post Office services locally, as well as supporting the viability of their business, by incorporating Newtownhamilton Post Office within a newly built Mace retail store.
“Our priority is to safeguard our services in the locality in the longer term and the relocation of Newtownhamilton Post Office would enable us to maintain a Post Office service to our customers in the local community.”
You can respond to the consultation here.
