Under-threat post office could be franchised

Residents and businesses have strongly opposed the potential closure of the Oswestry branch

The Post Office is inviting expressions of interest from companies who may want to franchise its wholly-owned post offices, including in Oswestry.

In a letter sent to North Shropshire MP Helen Morgan, the company said adverts would run from 2 December to 3 January.

The Oswestry branch is one of 115 at risk of closure, as the Post Office looks at options for its Directly Managed Branches (DMBs).

However, the company said it had not made any decision about them, and it would be communicating with unions until March 2025.

About 2,500 residents and businesses signed a petition against the potential closure in Oswestry.

The Post Office said it had been forced to consider the move because it faced a host of challenges, including stiff competition from rival parcel operators and fewer letters being sent, with revenues at its branches being hit as a result.

"While it's good to see the Post Office confirming that no decisions have been made, exploring franchising raises real questions about maintaining the level of service our community depends on," said Morgan.

"I will keep pushing to ensure Oswestry’s needs are not overlooked, particularly given how the Crown branch offers a full range of services to local businesses which would be lost otherwise."