Post Office Ltd has confirmed it will be advertising the opportunity to run a new Thetford branch in the town, after the previously appointed postmaster withdrew from plans to reopen at the former Peacocks store.
The Peacocks unit on King Street had been identified as the proposed new location following the closure of the town’s former branch in October. However, it was announced in November that plans for the new site would not proceed due to unforeseen circumstances.
Speaking last month, a Post Office spokesperson said: “Plans to re-open Thetford Post Office at the former Peacocks store have now been cancelled as the appointed postmaster has withdrawn.
“We are keen to hear from local retailers who wish to take on the business opportunity. We know how important a Post Office is to a community and we apologise that it is taking longer to restore service to Thetford than expected. In the interim, alternative branches include Canon’s Walk, Anna Gurney Close and Brandon.”
Terry Jermy, MP for South West Norfolk, said he would continue pressing for a permanent branch to reopen in the town. “I was deeply disappointed that Post Office Limited closed their Thetford branch before opening their new premises in the town,” he said. “This went against what had been agreed and let down residents. In rural areas we need more services, not less, and I will continue to keep pushing Post Office Ltd to open their new branch in Thetford as quickly as possible.
“I was also frustrated by the state in which they left the building with boarded-up windows. This is a disservice to a town when they’re meant to be providing the opposite. Organisations like Post Office Ltd have a duty of care to residents and the town to ensure that when they do leave, they leave thoughtfully. I am pleased they responded to my request to remove the boards, which I raised with them directly and have since been removed.”
When a new postmaster is appointed, Post Office Ltd will look again into suitable sites for a new branch in the town. The vacancy will soon be advertised on: www.runapostoffice.co.uk
