I have raised concerns over the impact the closure of the Post Office at Chain Lane will have on local people’s access to key Post Office provisions, particularly for elderly and vulnerable residents who may not be able to travel.

Despite a £227 million investment in the Post Office from the Chancellor last November, there have been a steady decline in post-masters over the past few years.

This means it may be difficult to quickly employ a suitable postmaster at Chain Lane, which in addition to their postal services, provides access to face-to-face banking, withdrawing benefits, paying bills, and a range of central and local government services.

I have urged the company to commit to re-opening the branch as quickly as possible, stating that this is really concerning news.

Under the plans, residents are set to lose out on a key community service, with it totally unclear as to when the provisions might return in the future.

I have sought urgent assurances that all avenues are being explored to reinstate this important service, and protect existing jobs. The Post Office must commit to re-open the branch as swiftly as possible.

Read more about this in the St Helens Star: https://www.sthelensstar.co.uk/news/19468970.calls-guarantee-future-chain-lane-post-office-branch/