Shepherds Bush post office will be modernised instead of closed

---

 

A Shepherds Bush post office that was previously proposed for closure has now been earmarked for a modernisation programme that will drastically improve facilities.

The St Ann's Road Post Office (37-39 St Anns Road, W11 4ST) is one of two post offices in the borough with the chance to move into brighter, more modern premises with improved access and other facilities. In the
case of St Ann's Road the new site is less than 100 yards away from the original, doomed, post office.

The Post Office management reversed a previous decision to close the
St Ann's Road Post Office after vocal opposition from the local
community and council. They are now proposing to invest in new
facilities at Costcutter (Swanscombe House, St Anns Road, W11 4SS).

If the move goes ahead residents in the area will benefit from
significantly enhanced facilities such as:

- A brand new serving counter, with low level facilities for those
in wheelchairs
- An induction hearing loop for those with hearing difficulties
- Space for wheelchair access
- Automatic doors and flat level entry for easy access
- No closures for lunch hours or half days on a Wednesday.

Welcoming the planned relocation Cllr Stephen Burke, Hammersmith &
Fulham Council leader, said, "The St Anns Road Post Office is a vital
public resource that had a very good case for staying open and when
the decision to reverse the original closure plan was made the whole
community had a weight lifted from its shoulders. The fact that the
Post Office is now talking about enhancing its service in this area is
a victory for all of those who opposed the closure in the first
place."

Plans have also been brought forward to move the post office at 68
Askew Road to enhanced facilities at 88-90 Askew Road. The new
facilities at this site will include all of the improvements at St
Anns Road as well as improved lighting and air-conditioning.

Cllr Burke continues, "Post Offices are as important now as they have
ever been. Not just as a place of business to pick up forms, buy
stamps or send a parcel, but also as community meeting places. The
fact that these two sites are now earmarked for additional investment
and new facilities is great news and I sincerely hope the Post Office
proceeds with its proposals."

 

March 6, 2006