Gavin Williamson, MP for South Staffordshire, has welcomed finalised plans to upgrade a Post Office branch in Essington.
The Post Office, located in Hill Street, Essington, finalised their proposals to be modernised into one of the Post Office’s new main style branches in February.
The Government committed £1.34 billion in 2010 to maintain and modernise the Post Office network and in November 2013 announced a further £640 million investment until 2018.
The newly refurbished branch would have longer opening hours making it more convenient for residents of Essington, opening from 6.30 every morning from Monday to Saturday.
When proposals were being considered in October, Gavin voiced his concern at the fact the branch’s proposed refurbishment dates would fall over the Christmas period. The Post Office has now confirmed that the upgrade of the Hill Street branch will take place next month, with the branch closing on Thursday 4th February and reopening on Monday 15th February at 13:00.
Commenting on the upgrade Gavin said: “I am so pleased that the Post Office has confirmed their proposals to upgrade the Hill Street branch. This is fantastic news for residents in Essington. I am also grateful that the Post Office postponed their refurbishment dates until after Christmas, which is undoubtedly their busiest time of year.
“The Post Office is a vital part of communities in South Staffordshire and has long provided a platform for essential and every day government services. I am dedicated to ensuring that local residents can easily access services they need and think this is another step in reaching that goal.”