22 June 2009
Rhoda Grant, Highlands and Islands regional Labour MSP, is calling on Royal Mail to instate a full postal service at their Applecross branch in Wester Ross.
The group recently informed MSPs that the branch will close temporarily in June following the resignation of its subpostmaster.
It is currently opened 17 hours a week, which local community groups believe will reduced to ten.
Mrs Grant said: “The limited hours that are already on offer to residents mean that it is already difficult for people to access services.
“Post Offices provide vital services for those living in remote and rural communities
“These services should be retained, not reduced, especially in areas where there is an elderly population.
“The Applecross community are understandably upset by the prospect of fewer trading hours at the branch as they are 19 miles away from the nearest bank of cash machine.”
Mrs Grant added: “The local community council have raised their concerns over the Post Office’ lack of communication with them during recent months.
“They also highlighted those within the community, who would be interested in taking over the running of the service, are being put off by the ten hour working week.
“I have contacted the Post Office, and I am hopeful that the post office will see sense and do their best to keep this vital service within Applecross.”
