MP meets Post Office chief in Pike Hill battle

Julie Cooper took regional public affairs manager Mr Richard Hall on a tour of Cliviger, Worsthorne and Pike Hill where residents have objected to proposals to close Pike Hill Post Office, in Brownside Road, and move it to the Bottle Stop convenience store, in Brunshaw Avenue.

The Express previously revealed the concerns of residents, many of whom would have to catch two buses to the new proposed site.

They said they would be unable to walk up the steep hill in Brunshaw Avenue and described it as “treacherous” in winter conditions, while some said they felt intimidated by boarded-up shops in Brunshaw Avenue and incidents of anti-social behaviour associated with gangs of youths who congregate outside. Neighbourhood Watch representatives have also expressed concerns about the safety of more vulnerable or elderly residents carrying large amounts of money being targeted.

Mrs Cooper said: “I have been inundated with requests from individual residents and groups to assist them in their battle to keep a Post Office at Pike Hill. Although the existing premises are up for sale, far more suitable alternatives exist within the immediate vicinity for a new Post Office to be relocated and they have expressed an interest in taking it over when my office has contacted them. Pike Hill has long benefited from a friendly shopping area where the elderly in particular feel safe to do their shopping following a trip to the Post Office to withdraw their pensions.

“The Post Office have a poor record of backing down once they have reached this stage, however these communities are united in their determination to get them to change their minds on this one and I will do all in my power to help them achieve this.”

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