Concern raised about the future of Post Office's in Derry-Londonderry

by Gráinne Connolly

Members of Sinn Féin in Derry-Londonderry met with the Post Office last Monday to discuss the future of a number of Post Offices in the city. 

Over recent weeks, concern has been raised from residents living in the city about what may happen to the branches in Park Avenue (Rosemount area) and Bishop Street (The Diamond), as well as the General office on Custom House Street. 

Q Radio spoke to local Councillor Mickey Cooper, who assisted Foyle MP Elisha McCallion in leading the delegation. 

He informed us that the issue came about as the same owner who mans the branches is due to retire very soon, however, a new occupier is not lined up to take over the premises' and to continue the services. 
 

Mr Cooper said since then, there has been an expression of interest in the Rosemount area and that he is confident services will continue for the area:

In terms of a branch in The Diamond area of the city, the future is still unsure as the building has been bought by another company who are developing a new bar next door. 

Therefore, whoever takes over the postal service in that area will have to do so from another location which is still to be appointed,  but he says "we're hopeful that someone will come forward in that regard."


Councillor Cooper says they are also appealing for local people or businesses to express interest in taking over the General Post Office. 

They hope to make them aware of the opportunity to run the service locally as the city centre location is key:

In conclusion, the Sinn Féin Councillor says the two branches and the GPO are extremely important to local residents in the area and businesses' as they're used regularly, and any closures will put pressure on other offices: 

The next steps will be for the consumer council to meet and work out as a party, alongside the public and other agencies how they can promote the opportunities/vacancies as much as possible. 

The Councillor also says they'll be dealing with the post office directly and liaising in order to identify new candidates and get the positions filled as soon as possible.