Newport East

Post Office Saved 18 March 2008

MP and AM thank residents for happy outcome to campaign

Jessica Morden and John Griffiths today warmly welcomed the decision by the Post Office to keep Christchurch Road Post Office open. The branch was one of 25 in Gwent earmarked for closure under the Network Change programme.

The decision came following a strong campaign by the sub postmasters and local residents, backed by Newport East MP Jessica Morden, AM John Griffiths and Alway Councillors.

Jessica Morden said: "I'm absolutely delighted the Post Office has listened to the strong case put by local residents and politicians and has reprieved Christchurch Road. Access to other branches is limited and its closure would have left the area without this service and would have put the shop at risk.

"The decision is simply common sense. I can only congratulate Helen and Sean Kennedy who run a popular and profitable Post Office and hope that their business continues to flourish in the future.

"I would like to say a big thank you to all the residents who attended the public meeting I organised with the Alway Councillors, signed the petition presented to the House of Commons and who took the time to write to the Post Office Network Change Team to make their views known. Thank you to all those who campaigned for a happy outcome and also to the Argus for its excellent coverage of the campaign.

"During the campaign hundreds of residents visited the Post Office to see what they could do to help. Many were surprised at some of the services available and I'd like to work with the Post Office to highlight what they can do over the counter so we can ensure a long term future for these vital local services."

John Griffiths added: "I am truly thrilled that the Christchurch Road branch has been saved. The public response to the proposed closure has been enormous and impassioned and this decision is a real testament to all those who took the time to make their voices heard by signing petitions and sending submissions.

"It was clear during the campaign how local residents regard the branch as simply invaluable. I do hope that people in the community continue to support Helen and Sean, utilising all the services in the post office and helping secure a healthy future for this branch.

"I am extremely grateful to the Post Office for listening to the huge number of concerned residents and helping save this vital local service."