Post Office to press ahead with plans to move village branch

The Post Office is set to go ahead with plans to relocate its branch in Hemingford Grey.

Following a public consultation, officials say they are to press ahead with a proposal to move the current branch, at 33 High Street, to a new base, in Hemingford Stores, at 12 High Street.

The current branch will close on Saturday, April 9, at 12.30pm, with the new branch opening on Monday, April 11, at 1pm.

During the brief closure, customers will be able to use the post office branch in Foundary Walk, St Ives.

Will Russell, regional manager for Post Office, said: “We are making it easier for customers to get their cash, send and collect their mail and do their banking because we know how important these services are to local residents.

“We are confident this vibrant new-style post office at the heart of the local community will meet customer needs.”

Post office services will be provided from a new open-plan till at the shop counter instead of from a separate screened counter.

New opening hours will be Monday to Friday, 7am-7.30pm; Saturday, 8.30am-7pm; and Sunday, 8.30am-4pm.

Officials say this equates to an extra 45 hours a week which will “make it more convenient for customers to visit”.

During the public consultation, Post Office officials said they received mixed feedback, including from people who wanted to see the office remain in its current location

Others supported the new layout and extended opening times.

The branch move is part of Post Office’s nationwide modernisation and investment programme.