PEOPLE campaigning to keep post offices open, including branches at Hove Edge and Lightcliffe, are urged to attend a meeting at Halifax Town Hall this evening.
The chairman of the council's Community Scrutiny Panel, Coun Colin Stout (Ind, Brighouse), hopes to see as many people as possible at the meeting starting at 6pm.
The Post Office Ltd is proposing to close 11 post offices in Calderdale, including o
ne in Halifax Road, Hove Edge, and one at Wakefield Road, Lightcliffe.
"It is important that as many people as possible attend the meeting to demonstrate the strength of feeling surrounding these proposed closures," he said. "It is vital that Calderdale retains as many Post Offices as possible. To lose 11 would have a massive impact on community life."
He said the Post Office needed to realise Calderdale was unique in terms of its geography. A mile in Calderdale was an undulating mile rather than a straight mile. The bus service was not as frequent as in other areas and if the closures went ahead it could lead to real problems for the elderly and parents with young children. Some people will be able to speak at the meeting which will be attended by Post Office regional manager Matt Silcock.
The council held a series of public meetings to give people the chance to support a campaign to keep post offices open. A petition has also been set up which will be forwarded to the Prime Minister. Copies are available in council buildings and names can be added on the internet by going to
http://petitions.pm.gov.uk/Calderdale/ or by following the link on the council's website.
- COUNCILLORS this evening will also discuss the introduction of area forums aimed at giving people the chance to have a greater say in how the community is run.
People in Brighouse can find out more at a Lower Valley area conference at Rastrick Independent Bowling Club on July 5 starting at 10.30am.
