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Watchdog will not fight closure of post office
WATCHDOG Postwatch has defended its decision not to appeal the fiercely-opposed closure of a Calderdale post office.
Earlier this week Post Office Ltd revealed 11 Calderdale branches were to be axed.
Since the closures were proposed in April residents and politicians have fought to save Greetland Post Office, Saddleworth Road, West Vale.
Campaigners were buoyed by Postwatch's support. After visiting the branch and hearing feedback from customers, it took the case to the first stage of appeal but then decided not to pursue the rescue bid further.
Calder Valley MP Chris McCafferty met watchdog members and took them to visit the postmaster.
"I am very disappointed. It is ludicrous. This was a very busy post office that serviced the community."
There are no more opportunities to appeal.
Mike Jones, regional manager for Postwatch Northern England, said: "There were a lot of views expressed about the proposal to close Greetland Post Office. We escalated that particular case because we did not think it seemed sensible. There were some very valid concerns."
However after discovering that if the West Vale branch was saved its place on the hitlist would be taken by another branch rather than the nearby Upper Greetland business – which is less popular with West Vale residents – Postwatch chose not to continue with the fight.
Mr Jones said: "If both stayed, vying for the same trade, they may not have been sustainable and in a few years residents could have lost both branches.
"We have to take a long term view."
Residents and councillors have also criticised the six-week consultation period.
Brenda Mallinson, 75, of Queen Street, West Vale, said: "I am fuming and so is everyone around here.
"We went to the public meeting, we signed the petitions, we did everything we can to keep it but nobody cares."
Mr Jones said: "I think its understandable that people are, for the most part, going to be disappointed. Post Office Ltd does listen and make amendments where there are obvious mistakes. What it can't do it listen to everyone. The Government has said it has got to make these closures."
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Saturday 11 February 2012
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