Three more post offices to reopen

THREE more post offices are set to reopen in Essex in the coming weeks thanks to the county council's initiative to bolster the branch network.

Brad Jones

THREE more post offices are set to reopen in Essex in the coming weeks thanks to the county council's initiative to bolster the branch network.

The three post offices are in The Street, White Notley, Allnutts Road, Epping, and Berechurch Road in Colchester.

All have been closed for up to two years, following Post Office Limited's closure programme.

The Egg Box in White Notley is the first to reopen on 16 November. The new facility combines a post office with a village shop and has been altered for disabled access.

Sub-postmistress, Niki Harrison, said: “It's great news for the community and we are really excited. I would like to say a huge thank you to Essex County Council, my family and all my customers for their support and encouragement.”

Berechurch Road Post Office in Colchester opens on 30 November. Sub Postmaster, Harendra Patel, said: “We are looking forward to becoming an integral part of the local community once again.”

Allnutts Stores in Epping follows on 23 November, and sub-postmistress Shanaz Javid said: “My customers are very much looking forward to coming back to me and have been counting the days until we reopen.”

All of the post offices will feature a community information point - allowing visitors to connect to Essex County Council services - as well useful websites such as Directgov, NHS direct and local interest sites.

Kevin Bentley, deputy to the cabinet member with responsibility for post offices, said: “With no less that three post offices opening this month, it is clear to see that the Essex post office initiative is continuing to gather momentum.

“Further post office openings will be announced in the New Year once dates have been confirmed.”