4 days ago
Greater Manchester Post Office under threat of closure WILL continue to operate
A Greater Manchester Post Office under threat of closure could transfer to a 'franchise model' and will operate under new owners, following an announcement today (June 4).
Last year, it was revealed that the Leigh branch was one of eight in Greater Manchester at risk of closure.
The news came after bosses announced that they were looking to offload 115 directly-owned Crown Post Offices in the 11,500 branch network as part of a big shake up.
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The centres chosen were set to be transferred to retail partners or postmasters, or closed for good.
But on Wednesday (June 4), MP Jo Platt took to social media to tell constituents that the Silk Street branch will continue operating at its current location while 'long-term arrangements' are being finalised.
She also wrote that should a new site be proposed, then the move won't occur before spring 2026, and any proposal would be subject to a public consultation. In the lengthy post, Jo introduced locals to new postmaster, Mikesh Parekh, who has over 15 years in the industry and operates nine Post Office branches in and around Greater Manchester.
Jo Platt's full statement reads: "Many of you might remember that at the end of last year I launched a petition to save Leigh Post Office on Silk Street after concerns were raised about the future of our town centre branch. I want to thank everyone who has signed, shared and supported that campaign so far - it really has made a difference.
"Today, I can share an update from the Post Office. They've confirmed that while the branch will move from direct management to a franchise model, it will continue operating from its current location in the near term, while they finalise long-term arrangements for the branch.
"In the event of a new site being proposed, any move to a new location is unlikely to be before spring 2026 and would be subject to local public consultation.
"It will be operated by the franchisee First Class Retail, under Mikesh Parekh, with customers being able to access the same products and services with the same opening hours.
"They will be working with First Class Retail over the remainder of this financial year to review the right long-term premises for the branch, which will either be at the existing site or a new site nearby.
Postmaster Mikesh Parekh from Firstclass Retail operates nine Post Office branches in and around Greater Manchester, the majority of which are larger, Mains-style branches. With over fifteen years of experience as a postmaster, Mikesh has a wealth of experience in running post offices at the heart of communities.
"Being a postmaster runs in the family, with Mikesh having learned from his father at his branch in Oldham, who himself was a postmaster for fifteen years.
"When the proposals for the permanent branch are ready, the Post Office will share the full details and engage with customers and stakeholders. If the proposal includes a relocation of the branch, they will hold a six-week public consultation with the local community.
"In the meantime, please do continue to support the Leigh Post Office on Silk Street, by using its services."
