The Voice of Spalding and South Holland
Post Office says customers can expect an improved service when the Holbeach branch relocates next month.
And it has moved to allay fears that there will not be enough room at the new premises within Lincolnshire Co-op’s site in Fleet Street.
The current branch in High Street – also operated by Lincolnshire Co-op – will close on Saturday, February 11 at 12.30pm. The new branch – about 200 yards away – will open at 1pm on Monday, February 13.
Post Office says it will be a modern main-style branch with three serving positions, with one modern screened and two open-plan counters.
Branch opening hours will be Monday to Saturday 9am-5.30pm, which is an extra five hours of Post Office service on a Saturday afternoon.
Wayne Dennett, Post Office group manager for Lincolnshire Co-op, said: “We are delighted to soon be welcoming customers to our Holbeach store as part of our major project to create a hub of community facilities around our food store.
“As a convenience store operator we are always looking for ways to make life easier for our customers and to provide an excellent service for the local community. This is an exciting project that will really benefit the community.”
Post Office says that during public consultation on the change it received a number of comments from customers and local representatives, mainly welcoming the improved parking and easier access the new premises would provide.
However, some customers feared there would be insufficient space within the store to accommodate a branch.
Post Office said on January 13: “The new branch will be in line with Post Office specifications to ensure sufficient space for the new style local Post Office to operate alongside the retail offer.
“We are working closely with the operator on the internal layout. Some fixtures and fittings will be removed or re-aligned for clear access into the premises. The entrance and the queuing area will be kept free from obstructions and adequate room will be provided for customers and a wheelchair to move around the store and access Post Office services.”
The business is making it easier for customers to get their cash, send and collect their mail and do their banking because it recognised how important these services are to local residents, said Post Office regional network manager Suzanne Richardson.
She added: “We are confident that this vibrant new-style Post Office at the heart of the local community will meet customer needs.
“This modernisation is part of a major investment programme, the largest in the history of the Post Office and will secure services for the future.”
Related report: Holbeach Library to relocate to Lincolnshire Co-op too – volunteers required
Related report: Council has no plans for current premises when library relocates
