Post Offices consultation: McInnes calls for public engagement

12.03.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Wed 28th May 2008

North East Scotland MSP Alison McInnes today expressed dismay that Dundee looks set to lose five post offices as part of the Post Office Network Change Programme.

However, Mrs McInnes stressed that there is still time to affect the decision and has called on residents to make their views known.

She said: "These proposals could have dramatic effects in Dundee. Under the current plans, five Dundee post offices will be closed, with another four closing in Angus."

Fairmuir, Ferry Road, Monikie, Lochee Road and Nethergate Post Offices are all lined up for closure in the proposals, alongside Southmuir, Kilry, Dundee Road in Forfar and Cairnie Street in Arbroath.

Meanwhile, nine Aberdeen City and Shire Post Offices will be closed, with 21 further services being downgraded to Outreach Services which will mean a change in opening hours and availability.

The nine Post Offices identified for closure are: Blacklaw, Broadsea, Glassel, Longhaven, Mannofield, Middlefield, Montgarrie, Mount St and Nigg.

The twenty Post Offices identified for conversion to Outreach Services are: Auchenblae, Auchnagatt, Collieston, Cornhill, Crimond, Cuminestown, Finzean, Gardenstown, Johnshaven, Kennethmont, Longside, Lumphanan, Lumsden, Methlick, New Aberdour, New Pitsligo, Rhynie, Rothienorman, St Fergus, Strachan, and Stuartfield.

Mrs McInnes added: "The consultation period runs from today until 8 July. It is very important that the Post Office understands the views of local communities before making final decisions. I would urge people to take the time to make their voices heard."

The contact details for the consultation are:

Sally Buchanan

Network Development Manager

C/O National Consultation Team

FREEPOST CONSULTATION TEAM

Email: consultation@postoffice.co.uk

Tel: 08457 223344