The reasons given for closure

The reasons Post Office Ltd have given for closing our branch were made public today.

This is their rationale.

Post Office® Llantrisant branch

Feedback regarding proposals to close Llantrisant branch highlighted concerns in relation to the local elderly and disabled population as well as the distance and terrain to the alternative branches.

Some concerns were also raised regarding public transport, parking facilities and the ability of neighbouring branches to cope with the additional customers. Further concerns highlighted the possible impact on local businesses and the local community.

Whilst we acknowledge the terrain is hilly in parts, a regular bus service is in operation to both neighbouring branches with the journey taking approximately 5 minutes. Concessionary travel is available enabling people over 60 and those with qualifying disabilities to travel free of charge and the bus company aims to offer low level access to buses where possible.

The capacity of nearby branches to absorb extra customers is one of the factors that Post Office Ltd carefully considers in drawing up its Area Plan proposals. Post Office Ltd has carefully reviewed the capacity and service at the neighbouring branches and is satisfied they can absorb the extra customers which will help ensure their long term viability.

Consideration has also been given to the impact on the local economy and we are satisfied that customers would travel to Talbot Green to access most of their shopping needs where there is a vibrant retail area which includes a Tesco Extra.

Taking all the relevant factors into consideration Post Office Ltd has decided to proceed with the proposal to close the Llantrisant branch.

(For information on other Post Offices in the Cardiff and Glamorgan area please go to the link on the left, Consultation Announcement)

Hmmm...I'm sure people will be interested to read that Llantrisant is "hilly in parts". That's like saying Mount Everest has the odd slope here and there.

What shop owners think of the Tesco Extra endorsement will be very interesting indeed.

And isn't it curious that the petition submitted has not been mentioned, nor has the number of letters Llantrisant citizens wrote?

A full, forensic reaction to the reasons outlined above will follow asap. Please feel free to leave your comments below.