Silverstone Post Office to move into shop premises

It is moving to Croft Stores, at 6 Stocks Hill, Silverstone, on Thursday, August 20, at 1pm.

This will be a new-style local branch where Post Office products and services are provided from an open-plan till at the shop counter instead of from a separate screened counter.

Post Office services would be available seven days a week during the store’s opening hours Monday to Saturday 7am – 8pm and Sundays 7am - 6pm.

This is an extra 48 hours of Post Office services a week including all-day Sunday and Saturday afternoon. The branch will also open significantly earlier and close much later every day. It will also mark an end to lunchtime closing.

The current branch at 5 High Street, Silverstone, closes at 5.30pm on Wednesday, August 19.

During the transfer there is an alternative branch at Towcester Post Office, 90 Watling Street, Towcester.

This move, with the current Postmaster’s agreement, is part of a major modernisation programme across the Post Office network designed to make it easier for customers to do business through longer opening hours and modern open plan environments.

A Post Office spokesman said during public consultation the Post Office received a small number of comments. Most comments were very supportive and welcomed closer parking and longer opening times. However, some feedback commented on security and the reduced range of services available.

The spokesman said it is working with the new operator to make sure there is an appropriate level of privacy provided to Post Office customers and that staff are trained to our high standard and fully aware of the need to respect customer confidentiality. He said: “Similarly with security, as with any branch in our network there would be strict guidelines and measures in place to safeguard customers, staff and the cash and stock entrusted to the operator’s care.”

Will Russell, Regional Network Manager said: “We understand how important having a Post Office is to residents in Silverstone and we are confident this new modern branch will meet the needs of the local community and secure services for the future. The modernisation is part of a major investment programme, the largest in the history of the Post Office and makes a commitment to no more branch closure programmes.”