This site has fully documented the awful conduct of Postwatch Wales.
I pity any post office that's backed by this organisation.
Why?
Well the best analogy I can think of this.
Imagine going to court and finding, as the Judge does his summing up, that your Solicitor has had a change of heart and joined the Prosecution.
That's the kind of support Postwatch Wales gave us.
Postwatch, you let us down.
Friday 29 February 2008
Thursday 28 February 2008
Is Kim Howells a hypocrite?
I will close this site soon, I don't see any reason for it continuing. But before I stop, a few parting shots.
Today, on the way to work, I heard a news story on the radio in which the Tories accused several cabinet ministers of "rank hypocrisy" for campaigning to save post offices in their constituencies, despite the Government's decision to back the closure policy last year.
Shadow Post Office Minister Charles Hendry said: "Cabinet ministers have a responsibility to explain to their own constituency why decisions to close post offices were right, rather than just saying their constituencies should be exempted."
These words made me ponder the role of our MP, Dr Kim Howells. "Is he a rank hypocrite?" I asked myself as I drove along the M4.
Dr Howells' problem, at least for us, was that he had a foot in both camps.
Being generous we could say that when we visited him at the House of Commons he outlined both sides of the argument.
But I knew, when he sidestepped my invitation for him to visit our post office, that he was not fully behind us.
You certainly can't compare the calculated arguments he expressed to the passion of Jane Davidson AM who was unequivocal in her support for our campaign.
Just read the words she said on the day we went to Parliament. Why couldn't Foreign Office Minister Dr Howells make a speech like that in aid of us?
So, when it came to his role in our campaign, is it fair to say he was a hypocrite?
No, I think that's too harsh.
But could he have done more?
Yes, he certainly could.
Kim, you let us down.
Tuesday 26 February 2008
Our post office closes today
A few years ago, when I worked for a magazine called Wales in Action, I wrote a feature about the benefits of community housing.
The gentleman I interviewed said he believed this mode of living saved the lives of the old people it helped.
That was quite a statement to make, yet the more I thought about it the more it made sense.
The interviewee said an elderly person living alone may not have anything to smile about all day.
However he believed that by being part of a social group, the spirits of lonely or isolated souls could be rejuvenated.
Those words frequently sprang to mind during the last two months. In fact I think his comments apply as much to the social benefits of a post office as they do to his field of expertise.
To some it may seem excessive to ponder whether the closure of a post office is a matter of life and death.
But for our old people, our community, our businesses and, of course, the branch itself, that statement does not seem an exaggerated one to me.
That's why today is one of the saddest in the history of our town.
Colin, our wonderful Sub Postmaster, memorably said that the decision to close our post office would rip the heart out of Llantrisant. Well, today that graphic opinion comes to pass, soon the impact will be felt.
But while the decision to close our branch remains shocking, the reasoning and behaviour of Post Office Ltd and Postwatch Wales lamentable, we can at least take a small sense of consolation in the hardy campaign our townfolk fought.
Special mentions must go to Councillor Glynne Holmes, Community Councillor Allan Matheson and Jane Davidson AM - nobody can fault their vigour and devotion to the cause.
And then, of course, there's Colin and Lynne.
Today we're not only losing what many consider to be the hub of the community, we're also losing the great charm and professionalism of this lovely couple.
They have served the people of Llantrisant superbly over the last 16 years.
It's not often you meet folk who excel in both their work and their people skills but Colin and Lynne certainly did. You could always be guaranteed a smile and a helping hand when visiting their branch.
We've been lucky to have had such a great duo serving us for all these years, I know that the people of Llantrisant deeply appreciate all their work and time.
I wish I could conclude this entry on a happy note but I feel very sad today.
Yesterday morning I spoke to my next door neighbour Maureen, a senior member of our community, and she said she could not believe she has been in Llantrisant post office for the last time. She spoke in a tone of shock, her expression was one of disbelief.
I can't believe that after today our post office will have gone, either.
This is a very sad day for our town.
The gentleman I interviewed said he believed this mode of living saved the lives of the old people it helped.
That was quite a statement to make, yet the more I thought about it the more it made sense.
The interviewee said an elderly person living alone may not have anything to smile about all day.
However he believed that by being part of a social group, the spirits of lonely or isolated souls could be rejuvenated.
Those words frequently sprang to mind during the last two months. In fact I think his comments apply as much to the social benefits of a post office as they do to his field of expertise.
To some it may seem excessive to ponder whether the closure of a post office is a matter of life and death.
But for our old people, our community, our businesses and, of course, the branch itself, that statement does not seem an exaggerated one to me.
That's why today is one of the saddest in the history of our town.
Colin, our wonderful Sub Postmaster, memorably said that the decision to close our post office would rip the heart out of Llantrisant. Well, today that graphic opinion comes to pass, soon the impact will be felt.
But while the decision to close our branch remains shocking, the reasoning and behaviour of Post Office Ltd and Postwatch Wales lamentable, we can at least take a small sense of consolation in the hardy campaign our townfolk fought.
Special mentions must go to Councillor Glynne Holmes, Community Councillor Allan Matheson and Jane Davidson AM - nobody can fault their vigour and devotion to the cause.
And then, of course, there's Colin and Lynne.
Today we're not only losing what many consider to be the hub of the community, we're also losing the great charm and professionalism of this lovely couple.
They have served the people of Llantrisant superbly over the last 16 years.
It's not often you meet folk who excel in both their work and their people skills but Colin and Lynne certainly did. You could always be guaranteed a smile and a helping hand when visiting their branch.
We've been lucky to have had such a great duo serving us for all these years, I know that the people of Llantrisant deeply appreciate all their work and time.
I wish I could conclude this entry on a happy note but I feel very sad today.
Yesterday morning I spoke to my next door neighbour Maureen, a senior member of our community, and she said she could not believe she has been in Llantrisant post office for the last time. She spoke in a tone of shock, her expression was one of disbelief.
I can't believe that after today our post office will have gone, either.
This is a very sad day for our town.
Monday 25 February 2008
The walk of a guilty man
I can't help but feel that the following story (see below), which appeared in Saturday's Echo, is not evidence of bravery, as the writer suggests, but more a case of a guilty conscience in need of healing.
If Post Office Chief Steve Geraty is so keen to "walk the walk" why didn't he do so in Llantrisant?
Mr Geraty says he was here last year - well did anyone see him? Why did he not have the courtesy to pop in and say hello to Colin, our Sub Postmaster, when he was in town?
As Colin says, if he visited our Swan Street branch he could have avoided making the ludicrous, shamefully uneducated assertion that the hilltop town of Llantrisant is "hilly in parts".
Here's the story anyway....
YOU can’t accuse him of not walking the walk.
A Post Office chief leading the cull of 30 branches in South Wales stunned councillors in a village fighting the closure of its branch by agreeing to walk with them to the nearest alternative.
Wales manager Steve Geraty put his feet in the line of fire by joining councillors and Christine Chapman AM on the half-hour walk from Penrhiwceiber post office to the neighbouring branch in Perthcelyn.
Councillor Chris Binding said: “It’s good of him to come and see for himself.
“I have to say, I didn’t expect him to turn up. They did come and I hope it has given them an idea of how difficult it is to walk as it is a very steep hill.
“It took us about an hour to walk there and back.”
Councillors feel doubly cheated as the branch was not in the original list of 31 branches named as facing closure last year.
When it was announced that Splott Road, Cardiff, and High Street, Barry, were being reprieved, the Cynon Valley branch was put up for closure in its place.
Another nearby branch at Glyn Gwyn Street, Miskin, was in the first round and closes next week.
Coun Binding said that although the Miskin branch had been surrendered without a fight, few residents in Perthcelyn owned cars and felt aggrieved.
Although it is only 1km to the branch in Penrhiwceiber, the route is on a steep hill and the road is not direct.
Christine Chapman AM said: “Young and old people alike will be challenged by the steepness of the route and also the time it will take as there’s no bus service.”
Mr Geraty declined to comment on his walk.
A Post Office spokesman said: “As part of the public consultation process we are happy to meet with elected representatives, wherever that may be, and listen to their concerns.
“With regard to Perthcelyn, those concerns have been acknowledged and will form part of our considerations after the public consultation ends.”
If Post Office Chief Steve Geraty is so keen to "walk the walk" why didn't he do so in Llantrisant?
Mr Geraty says he was here last year - well did anyone see him? Why did he not have the courtesy to pop in and say hello to Colin, our Sub Postmaster, when he was in town?
As Colin says, if he visited our Swan Street branch he could have avoided making the ludicrous, shamefully uneducated assertion that the hilltop town of Llantrisant is "hilly in parts".
Here's the story anyway....
YOU can’t accuse him of not walking the walk.
A Post Office chief leading the cull of 30 branches in South Wales stunned councillors in a village fighting the closure of its branch by agreeing to walk with them to the nearest alternative.
Wales manager Steve Geraty put his feet in the line of fire by joining councillors and Christine Chapman AM on the half-hour walk from Penrhiwceiber post office to the neighbouring branch in Perthcelyn.
Councillor Chris Binding said: “It’s good of him to come and see for himself.
“I have to say, I didn’t expect him to turn up. They did come and I hope it has given them an idea of how difficult it is to walk as it is a very steep hill.
“It took us about an hour to walk there and back.”
Councillors feel doubly cheated as the branch was not in the original list of 31 branches named as facing closure last year.
When it was announced that Splott Road, Cardiff, and High Street, Barry, were being reprieved, the Cynon Valley branch was put up for closure in its place.
Another nearby branch at Glyn Gwyn Street, Miskin, was in the first round and closes next week.
Coun Binding said that although the Miskin branch had been surrendered without a fight, few residents in Perthcelyn owned cars and felt aggrieved.
Although it is only 1km to the branch in Penrhiwceiber, the route is on a steep hill and the road is not direct.
Christine Chapman AM said: “Young and old people alike will be challenged by the steepness of the route and also the time it will take as there’s no bus service.”
Mr Geraty declined to comment on his walk.
A Post Office spokesman said: “As part of the public consultation process we are happy to meet with elected representatives, wherever that may be, and listen to their concerns.
“With regard to Perthcelyn, those concerns have been acknowledged and will form part of our considerations after the public consultation ends.”
Sunday 24 February 2008
A sad week looms
Despite knowing for nearly a month that our post office is to close I still can't quite believe it will, even though its final day of business will take place this week.
The following story, which appeared in Friday's Echo, is a very poignant read indeed.
POSTMASTERS across South Wales today spoke of their sorrow and anger as they prepared to close their branches for the final time.
Some 23 of the 29 post offices slated for closure in the region are set to shut their doors next week, one month after their fate was sealed.
One postmaster is holding a wake for his branch the day after it closes.
Graham Holton, 56, who has run the Evansfield Road branch in Llandaff North, Cardiff, for five years said customers were invited to the Royal Exchange pub on Ty Mawr Road at 5.30pm on Thursday.
He said: “The customers aren’t taking it very well at all. Some don’t want to go to Whitchurch and some don’t want to go to Gabalfa because of the threat of the kids.
“What’s sad is that many are just going to have their pensions paid into the bank.”
Colin Cranness, who has run the Swan Street branch in Llantrisant with his wife Lynne for nearly 16 years, said that many of his customers had also decided to stop using the Post Office.
“I’ve seen my life go out of the door in boxes over the last few days,” he said. “We haven’t got very many things left in here now. It’s very sad.”
Campaigners in Llantrisant have continued the fight despite Post Office Ltd’s final decision in January. Several have put pressure on watchdog Postwatch Wales to explain why the body withdrew its objection to the closures at the last minute.
The remaining branches on the closure list will shut their doors in the coming months. The branch at The Graig, Pontypridd, is planning to close at the end of March.
The following story, which appeared in Friday's Echo, is a very poignant read indeed.
POSTMASTERS across South Wales today spoke of their sorrow and anger as they prepared to close their branches for the final time.
Some 23 of the 29 post offices slated for closure in the region are set to shut their doors next week, one month after their fate was sealed.
One postmaster is holding a wake for his branch the day after it closes.
Graham Holton, 56, who has run the Evansfield Road branch in Llandaff North, Cardiff, for five years said customers were invited to the Royal Exchange pub on Ty Mawr Road at 5.30pm on Thursday.
He said: “The customers aren’t taking it very well at all. Some don’t want to go to Whitchurch and some don’t want to go to Gabalfa because of the threat of the kids.
“What’s sad is that many are just going to have their pensions paid into the bank.”
Colin Cranness, who has run the Swan Street branch in Llantrisant with his wife Lynne for nearly 16 years, said that many of his customers had also decided to stop using the Post Office.
“I’ve seen my life go out of the door in boxes over the last few days,” he said. “We haven’t got very many things left in here now. It’s very sad.”
Campaigners in Llantrisant have continued the fight despite Post Office Ltd’s final decision in January. Several have put pressure on watchdog Postwatch Wales to explain why the body withdrew its objection to the closures at the last minute.
The remaining branches on the closure list will shut their doors in the coming months. The branch at The Graig, Pontypridd, is planning to close at the end of March.
Thursday 21 February 2008
Howells attacks "unprincipled opportunists"
I received a letter from Dr Kim Howells yesterday, today was my earliest opportunity to upload it here.
Dr Howells wrote to me after obtaining a letter he received (dated February 13th, 2008) from Phillipa Wright, National Consultation Manager.
Phillipa's letter is not worth putting on this site. It simply reiterates the reasons Post Office Ltd gave for closing our branch.
Dr Howells' correspondence is, however, worth perusing.
This is what his letter, dated February 18th, said:
Dear Mr Gilheaney
I enclose a copy of an extremely disappointing reply I have received from Post Office Ltd which confirms that all of the seven post offices listed for closure in this constituency are, indeed, to close. I know, from discussions with scores of people across the borough, that they share my anger and frustration at these decisions. I am far from convinced that the Post Office management understand the burden that the closures will create, not only for the sub postmasters and mistresses but also for the elderly, infirm and for local businesses who find the locations of a number of the sub post offices very convenient.
I am sure, in my own mind, that the real reasons for the closures are due to the government having to contain the substantial sums being paid as subsidies to keep the offices open. In these difficult financial times it is a duty, of course, of a government to protect taxpayers' money wherever possible and none of the government's critics on post office closures can say how, exactly, they would find the extra funds to continue with the present levels of subsidy. They are simply name-calling in the hope of winning some votes: unprincipled opportunists without a constructive thought in their heads.
My frustration derives, not from a recognition that government has to take great care with taxpayers' money but that due consideration has not been given by Post Office management to the difficulties that people will have negotiating steep hills and inconvenient routes to reach the nearest alternative post office. I have tried in every way I know how to persuade the authorities that these are very serious considerations but, so far, without success.
I will continue trying. In the meantime, thank you once again for your interest.
Yours sincerely
Dr Kim Howells
Member of Parliament for Pontypridd
Dr Howells wrote to me after obtaining a letter he received (dated February 13th, 2008) from Phillipa Wright, National Consultation Manager.
Phillipa's letter is not worth putting on this site. It simply reiterates the reasons Post Office Ltd gave for closing our branch.
Dr Howells' correspondence is, however, worth perusing.
This is what his letter, dated February 18th, said:
Dear Mr Gilheaney
I enclose a copy of an extremely disappointing reply I have received from Post Office Ltd which confirms that all of the seven post offices listed for closure in this constituency are, indeed, to close. I know, from discussions with scores of people across the borough, that they share my anger and frustration at these decisions. I am far from convinced that the Post Office management understand the burden that the closures will create, not only for the sub postmasters and mistresses but also for the elderly, infirm and for local businesses who find the locations of a number of the sub post offices very convenient.
I am sure, in my own mind, that the real reasons for the closures are due to the government having to contain the substantial sums being paid as subsidies to keep the offices open. In these difficult financial times it is a duty, of course, of a government to protect taxpayers' money wherever possible and none of the government's critics on post office closures can say how, exactly, they would find the extra funds to continue with the present levels of subsidy. They are simply name-calling in the hope of winning some votes: unprincipled opportunists without a constructive thought in their heads.
My frustration derives, not from a recognition that government has to take great care with taxpayers' money but that due consideration has not been given by Post Office management to the difficulties that people will have negotiating steep hills and inconvenient routes to reach the nearest alternative post office. I have tried in every way I know how to persuade the authorities that these are very serious considerations but, so far, without success.
I will continue trying. In the meantime, thank you once again for your interest.
Yours sincerely
Dr Kim Howells
Member of Parliament for Pontypridd
Thursday 14 February 2008
"Howells just doesn't care"
Two letters regarding our campaign can be found in this week's edition of the Pontypridd and Llantrisant Observer. Both refer to Dr Kim Howells MP.
One, from Bob Humphreys in Rhydfelin, voiced surprise at how Dr Howells met campaigners from our town because "it's Labour MPs like Dr Howells who have consistently supported Government policies in Parliament."
The other letter, headlined "Howells just doesn't care" was written by Jean Henderson of Heol-y-Soun, Llantrisant.
It reads as follows: "The very strong fight against Post Office closures was taken seriously by the community.
"However, how about Kim Howells who represents Pontypridd but, perhaps, not Llantrisant?
"I believe he already knew the outcome when we went to meet him in the Commons at Westminster. He appeared to give little support to Postwatch, who are supposed to be independent.
"The reason? Labour political expediency of course! Kim Howells had a 20,000 majority of votes in the last election. So why bother?
"The two post offices saved from closure were in the Vale of Glamorgan, where the MP has a tiny majority.
"To add insult to injury the Post Office has been renamed the People's Post Office - how cynical can this Government get? Determined to destroy post offices to 'save money', but willing to spend a vast sum rebranding them and paying lip service to the fact that post offices are valuable to people."
By coincidence I received an e-mail from Dr Howells' office today.
A message, from Christine Raybould, read: "Just to let you know that Dr Howells has received the attached acknowledgement letter from Michele Graves, Executive Correspondence Manager for Post Office Ltd, who has responded on behalf of Allan Leighton, Chair of the Royal Mail Group.
"Dr Howells will let you have sight of the full reply when he receives it."
One, from Bob Humphreys in Rhydfelin, voiced surprise at how Dr Howells met campaigners from our town because "it's Labour MPs like Dr Howells who have consistently supported Government policies in Parliament."
The other letter, headlined "Howells just doesn't care" was written by Jean Henderson of Heol-y-Soun, Llantrisant.
It reads as follows: "The very strong fight against Post Office closures was taken seriously by the community.
"However, how about Kim Howells who represents Pontypridd but, perhaps, not Llantrisant?
"I believe he already knew the outcome when we went to meet him in the Commons at Westminster. He appeared to give little support to Postwatch, who are supposed to be independent.
"The reason? Labour political expediency of course! Kim Howells had a 20,000 majority of votes in the last election. So why bother?
"The two post offices saved from closure were in the Vale of Glamorgan, where the MP has a tiny majority.
"To add insult to injury the Post Office has been renamed the People's Post Office - how cynical can this Government get? Determined to destroy post offices to 'save money', but willing to spend a vast sum rebranding them and paying lip service to the fact that post offices are valuable to people."
By coincidence I received an e-mail from Dr Howells' office today.
A message, from Christine Raybould, read: "Just to let you know that Dr Howells has received the attached acknowledgement letter from Michele Graves, Executive Correspondence Manager for Post Office Ltd, who has responded on behalf of Allan Leighton, Chair of the Royal Mail Group.
"Dr Howells will let you have sight of the full reply when he receives it."
Monday 11 February 2008
Plaid AMs write to Leighton
Plaid Cymru Community Development Officer Kelly Davies e-mailed me on Friday.
She told me that "Leanne Wood and Chris Franks have written to Allan Leighton, Chairman of Royal Mail Group, asking if he was involved in the decision making process concerning Llantrisant Post Office and, if not, can he intervene as a matter of urgency with the proposed date of closure being 27th February."
She told me that "Leanne Wood and Chris Franks have written to Allan Leighton, Chairman of Royal Mail Group, asking if he was involved in the decision making process concerning Llantrisant Post Office and, if not, can he intervene as a matter of urgency with the proposed date of closure being 27th February."
Wednesday 6 February 2008
Davidson: "There remains extremely worrying questions"
Jane Davidson, AM for Pontypridd, has circulated a press release in which she expresses her dismay at the letter she received from Eifion Pritchard, Chairman of Postwatch Wales (see entry 'Postwatch respond to Davidson').
Prompted by Mr Pritchard's letter, Jane has written to Post Office Ltd clarifying her concerns and requesting they reconsider their decision to close Llantrisant Post Office.
Below is a transcript of her letter to Steve Geraty, Network Development Manager, Post Office Ltd.
Dear Mr Geraty
Re: Llantrisant Post Office Closure
I have recently received a letter from Eifion Pritchard, Chairman of Postwatch Wales, in response to my letter of 21st January. I enclose copies of these letters for your attention.
I note that Mr Pritchard’s letter states that Post Office Ltd has agreed to:
“Write to local authority and bus company to seek the movement of one of the bus stops to a safer area and also to provide a shelter at the bus stop.
“Liaise with the subpostmaster at the nearest branch in connection with the installation of a ‘combi’ till on the retail side of the business
“To scope possible alternative businesses in the area where stamps can be sold.”
As a result of these undertakings I understand that Postwatch Wales decided that it would no longer continue with its review process. However, I submit that the steps outlined above fall short of adequately dealing with the concerns of those who use Llantrisant Post Office.
The issue of the topography of Llantrisant has been largely ignored by these suggestions. Post office users will still have to negotiate a steep hill if they wish to access a post office on foot, a situation which means that many of Llantrisant’s residents will be unable to access services without use of public transport or cars.
Furthermore, even if a bus stop were relocated (which is by no means a certainty) the cost of the journey would be an additional expense which many may find unaffordable. Although those over 60 years of age should receive free transportation by bus, their trips to the post office will take substantially longer than at present, and may still prove extremely difficult for those people with mobility difficulties.
It is also clear that the issue of parking at the suggested alternative post offices, and at Talbot Green in particular, remains unresolved. I am often contacted by constituents concerned about the extremely high levels of traffic and parking difficulties within Talbot Green, a situation which the closure of Llantrisant Post Office will surely worsen.
Further, although Postwatch’s letter makes reference to a desire to move Llantrisant’s bus stops to a safer area, there remain concerns regarding the position of the bus stop nearest Southgate Post Office. Local councillors inform me that even if the bus stop in Llantrisant were relocated there would still be a tortuous route to the Southgate Post Office when passengers alight, a situation that appears to have been ignored by Post Office Ltd.
Finally, there is no indication that any of the proposed third parties (the local authorities, the bus companies, other sub-postmasters and other local businesses) would be willing or able to carry out the measures suggested by Post Office Ltd. I should be most grateful to hear whether you have received any feedback from any of the parties concerned.
In view of the above, plus the information contained in my previous letters, I again ask that you reconsider your decision to close Llantrisant Post Office, as it is clear that there remain many extremely worrying questions.
I look forward to receiving your full response.
Yours sincerely
Jane Davidson
Assembly Member for Pontypridd
Prompted by Mr Pritchard's letter, Jane has written to Post Office Ltd clarifying her concerns and requesting they reconsider their decision to close Llantrisant Post Office.
Below is a transcript of her letter to Steve Geraty, Network Development Manager, Post Office Ltd.
Dear Mr Geraty
Re: Llantrisant Post Office Closure
I have recently received a letter from Eifion Pritchard, Chairman of Postwatch Wales, in response to my letter of 21st January. I enclose copies of these letters for your attention.
I note that Mr Pritchard’s letter states that Post Office Ltd has agreed to:
“Write to local authority and bus company to seek the movement of one of the bus stops to a safer area and also to provide a shelter at the bus stop.
“Liaise with the subpostmaster at the nearest branch in connection with the installation of a ‘combi’ till on the retail side of the business
“To scope possible alternative businesses in the area where stamps can be sold.”
As a result of these undertakings I understand that Postwatch Wales decided that it would no longer continue with its review process. However, I submit that the steps outlined above fall short of adequately dealing with the concerns of those who use Llantrisant Post Office.
The issue of the topography of Llantrisant has been largely ignored by these suggestions. Post office users will still have to negotiate a steep hill if they wish to access a post office on foot, a situation which means that many of Llantrisant’s residents will be unable to access services without use of public transport or cars.
Furthermore, even if a bus stop were relocated (which is by no means a certainty) the cost of the journey would be an additional expense which many may find unaffordable. Although those over 60 years of age should receive free transportation by bus, their trips to the post office will take substantially longer than at present, and may still prove extremely difficult for those people with mobility difficulties.
It is also clear that the issue of parking at the suggested alternative post offices, and at Talbot Green in particular, remains unresolved. I am often contacted by constituents concerned about the extremely high levels of traffic and parking difficulties within Talbot Green, a situation which the closure of Llantrisant Post Office will surely worsen.
Further, although Postwatch’s letter makes reference to a desire to move Llantrisant’s bus stops to a safer area, there remain concerns regarding the position of the bus stop nearest Southgate Post Office. Local councillors inform me that even if the bus stop in Llantrisant were relocated there would still be a tortuous route to the Southgate Post Office when passengers alight, a situation that appears to have been ignored by Post Office Ltd.
Finally, there is no indication that any of the proposed third parties (the local authorities, the bus companies, other sub-postmasters and other local businesses) would be willing or able to carry out the measures suggested by Post Office Ltd. I should be most grateful to hear whether you have received any feedback from any of the parties concerned.
In view of the above, plus the information contained in my previous letters, I again ask that you reconsider your decision to close Llantrisant Post Office, as it is clear that there remain many extremely worrying questions.
I look forward to receiving your full response.
Yours sincerely
Jane Davidson
Assembly Member for Pontypridd
Tuesday 5 February 2008
Geraty: "This is not a popularity contest"
I received a letter from Post Office Ltd Network Manager Steve Geraty today, one in which he responded to the open letter, to both him and Mr Huw Roberts, Director Welsh Affairs, Royal Mail Group, I put on this site on Thursday January 24th, 2008.
You may wish to refer to my correspondence (see below) before you read Mr Geraty's reply to each point.
This is what his letter, dated February 4th, 2008, said.
Dear Mr Gilheaney
Thank you for your letter dated January 24th addressed to myself and my colleague Huw Roberts.
I will endeavour to address the points you raise in your letter. However I must stress that Post Office Ltd's decision to close Llantrisant Post Office is final and there is no further appeal procedure.
1. The reference to Llantrisant within the decision document refers to the town and the surrounding area.
2. Every piece of correspondence received during the area public consultation period is read and considered by me as I have overall responsibility for making both proposals and decisions on individual branches. Postwatch also receive copies of correspondence received during public consultation to inform their participation in the decision making process.
As I said many times during the consultation period, this is not a popularity contest. The number of correspondence received or signatories on a petition will not impact on the decision as much as the provision of factual information.
As you can see from the Decision Document, new factual information was presented in relation to two branches which resulted in Post Office Ltd reviewing its decision to close High Street, Barry and Splott Road. While Llantrisant organised a strong campaign there was not enough new evidence presented to withdraw this office from the plan.
3. The regular bus service referred to is number 100 (Veolia Transport Cymru), which runs from the Wheat Sheaf, High Street, every half an hour to Llantrisant Leisure Centre, which is approximately 250 yards from Cross Inn Post Office and Talbot Green Bus Station and number 244 (Stagecoach) which runs every hour to Llantrisant Leisure Centre and Talbot Green Bus Station. I note from my research into local transport in the area that two websites (www.craftgallerywales.com and www.llantrisant.net) both quote regular bus services travelling to and from the town.
4. My team and I visited Llantrisant on a number of occasions during the planning stage and consultation period and work was undertaken to examine local factors, including impact on the immediate local economy. There was no endorsement of Tesco Extra; only recognition of the fact that people need to leave Llantrisant to purchase food supplies, whether or not they choose to shop at that particular retail outlet.
I hope the above clarifies Post Office Ltd's position.
Yours sincerely
Steve Geraty
Network Development Manager
Post Office Ltd
c/o National Consultation Team
FREEPOST CONSULTATION TEAM
I'll study the contents of this letter with Colin and post a response at a later date. A press release I received from Jane Davidson's office will be uploaded later today.
You may wish to refer to my correspondence (see below) before you read Mr Geraty's reply to each point.
This is what his letter, dated February 4th, 2008, said.
Dear Mr Gilheaney
Thank you for your letter dated January 24th addressed to myself and my colleague Huw Roberts.
I will endeavour to address the points you raise in your letter. However I must stress that Post Office Ltd's decision to close Llantrisant Post Office is final and there is no further appeal procedure.
1. The reference to Llantrisant within the decision document refers to the town and the surrounding area.
2. Every piece of correspondence received during the area public consultation period is read and considered by me as I have overall responsibility for making both proposals and decisions on individual branches. Postwatch also receive copies of correspondence received during public consultation to inform their participation in the decision making process.
As I said many times during the consultation period, this is not a popularity contest. The number of correspondence received or signatories on a petition will not impact on the decision as much as the provision of factual information.
As you can see from the Decision Document, new factual information was presented in relation to two branches which resulted in Post Office Ltd reviewing its decision to close High Street, Barry and Splott Road. While Llantrisant organised a strong campaign there was not enough new evidence presented to withdraw this office from the plan.
3. The regular bus service referred to is number 100 (Veolia Transport Cymru), which runs from the Wheat Sheaf, High Street, every half an hour to Llantrisant Leisure Centre, which is approximately 250 yards from Cross Inn Post Office and Talbot Green Bus Station and number 244 (Stagecoach) which runs every hour to Llantrisant Leisure Centre and Talbot Green Bus Station. I note from my research into local transport in the area that two websites (www.craftgallerywales.com and www.llantrisant.net) both quote regular bus services travelling to and from the town.
4. My team and I visited Llantrisant on a number of occasions during the planning stage and consultation period and work was undertaken to examine local factors, including impact on the immediate local economy. There was no endorsement of Tesco Extra; only recognition of the fact that people need to leave Llantrisant to purchase food supplies, whether or not they choose to shop at that particular retail outlet.
I hope the above clarifies Post Office Ltd's position.
Yours sincerely
Steve Geraty
Network Development Manager
Post Office Ltd
c/o National Consultation Team
FREEPOST CONSULTATION TEAM
I'll study the contents of this letter with Colin and post a response at a later date. A press release I received from Jane Davidson's office will be uploaded later today.
Monday 4 February 2008
Postwatch letter "a kick in the teeth" for business and elderly
On Friday I spoke to Colin, our Postmaster. We discussed Postwatch Wales' Chairman Eifion Pritchard's response to a letter from Jane Davidson in which she asked why his organisation dropped their support for our post office at the last minute.
After close analysis of Mr Pritchard's letter it once again became depressingly clear how toothless Postwatch Wales have been, how weak they were when presented with a compelling case to support and how they badly let down the very people they claim to champion, the consumer, particularly the elderly customer.
Here Colin outlines in great detail the weaknesses in Mr Pritchard's letter. He also assesses the wider ramifications closure will have on our community.
"The letter does not say when the decision was made or at what level. It's only the last few paragraphs that has anything pertaining to us.
"When Postwatch Wales write about the second stage review they refer to 'a relatively low customer usage', well that's debatable. I don't class 500 plus customers a week as a low usage, not by today's standards.
"The phrase 'relatively low' means we could well be a profitable post office. Unfortunately, of course, Post Office Ltd. won't tell us whether we are or not.
"As for what they write about small businesses, that's a kick in the teeth for them. Postwatch Wales haven't listened to the town's entrepreneurs at all.
"The fact is if business people do decide to travel by car to the nearest post office that will only lead to congestion and make the roads more dangerous.
"The letter makes no mention whatsoever of the elderly or the problems they'll face, it just seems they've given up on them because we've still got the problem of no public transport accessing the old people's complex in Llantrisant.
"They will still have to walk uphill to get a bus, or they'll have to get a taxi. That's (approximately) a £6 return trip out of their pension.
"Assuming the 'combi' tll refers to the Co-op at Cross Inn, that will lead to a major rethink on their shop tills. (A 'combi' till is where customers can access Post Office transactions at the retail counter). Again, who's going to pay for that? Will the Post Office provide sweeteners or will the Co-op stand the cost? To install these designs will mean a major redesign of their counters which are already cluttered.
"Post Office Ltd are rubbing salt in to an already open wound when they suggest finding alternative businesses in the area from where to sell stamps.
"We've got somewhere up here selling stamps now, it's called the post office.
"In one foul swoop they're closing me down and now they're talking about an alternative business to sell stamps for them. Where?
"As for Postwatch Wales, I'm really disappointed with them. Their role is to help us and the consumer, their duty is not to be toothless, to give in to Post Office Ltd.
"If they had reservations, which they clearly did have, they've got the power to say to Post Office Ltd: 'We want this to go further, to Allan Leighton', even if Post Office Ltd don't want that to happen.
"Postwatch Wales keep saying they haven't got a veto, they haven't got power, but they have, they've got the power to refer the decision to the final phase.
"I think Postwatch Wales should have the conviction to go all the way if they feel strongly enough about a particular post office. Pressure's obviously been put on them somewhere but by whom? We're still trying to find that out. It looks like they had the conviction but it's been beaten out of them.
"The fact that three additional points were made in the letter - which were not brought up when it was announced we were to close - underlines that even Post Office Ltd have reservations about the issues Postwatch Wales raised.
"Overall, the letter is pathetic. Postwatch Wales haven't truly listened to a thing we've said.
"The fact is closing the post office means Llantrisant's regenerations plans have taken a big blow; the elderly will suffer and the roads will become more dangerous and congested.
"The closure of this office will put Llantrisant back in time, not into the 21st Century.
"Llantrisant is one of the oldest towns in South Wales. How many towns like us have not got a post office?
"We could go down in history as being the first."
After close analysis of Mr Pritchard's letter it once again became depressingly clear how toothless Postwatch Wales have been, how weak they were when presented with a compelling case to support and how they badly let down the very people they claim to champion, the consumer, particularly the elderly customer.
Here Colin outlines in great detail the weaknesses in Mr Pritchard's letter. He also assesses the wider ramifications closure will have on our community.
"The letter does not say when the decision was made or at what level. It's only the last few paragraphs that has anything pertaining to us.
"When Postwatch Wales write about the second stage review they refer to 'a relatively low customer usage', well that's debatable. I don't class 500 plus customers a week as a low usage, not by today's standards.
"The phrase 'relatively low' means we could well be a profitable post office. Unfortunately, of course, Post Office Ltd. won't tell us whether we are or not.
"As for what they write about small businesses, that's a kick in the teeth for them. Postwatch Wales haven't listened to the town's entrepreneurs at all.
"The fact is if business people do decide to travel by car to the nearest post office that will only lead to congestion and make the roads more dangerous.
"The letter makes no mention whatsoever of the elderly or the problems they'll face, it just seems they've given up on them because we've still got the problem of no public transport accessing the old people's complex in Llantrisant.
"They will still have to walk uphill to get a bus, or they'll have to get a taxi. That's (approximately) a £6 return trip out of their pension.
"Assuming the 'combi' tll refers to the Co-op at Cross Inn, that will lead to a major rethink on their shop tills. (A 'combi' till is where customers can access Post Office transactions at the retail counter). Again, who's going to pay for that? Will the Post Office provide sweeteners or will the Co-op stand the cost? To install these designs will mean a major redesign of their counters which are already cluttered.
"Post Office Ltd are rubbing salt in to an already open wound when they suggest finding alternative businesses in the area from where to sell stamps.
"We've got somewhere up here selling stamps now, it's called the post office.
"In one foul swoop they're closing me down and now they're talking about an alternative business to sell stamps for them. Where?
"As for Postwatch Wales, I'm really disappointed with them. Their role is to help us and the consumer, their duty is not to be toothless, to give in to Post Office Ltd.
"If they had reservations, which they clearly did have, they've got the power to say to Post Office Ltd: 'We want this to go further, to Allan Leighton', even if Post Office Ltd don't want that to happen.
"Postwatch Wales keep saying they haven't got a veto, they haven't got power, but they have, they've got the power to refer the decision to the final phase.
"I think Postwatch Wales should have the conviction to go all the way if they feel strongly enough about a particular post office. Pressure's obviously been put on them somewhere but by whom? We're still trying to find that out. It looks like they had the conviction but it's been beaten out of them.
"The fact that three additional points were made in the letter - which were not brought up when it was announced we were to close - underlines that even Post Office Ltd have reservations about the issues Postwatch Wales raised.
"Overall, the letter is pathetic. Postwatch Wales haven't truly listened to a thing we've said.
"The fact is closing the post office means Llantrisant's regenerations plans have taken a big blow; the elderly will suffer and the roads will become more dangerous and congested.
"The closure of this office will put Llantrisant back in time, not into the 21st Century.
"Llantrisant is one of the oldest towns in South Wales. How many towns like us have not got a post office?
"We could go down in history as being the first."
Friday 1 February 2008
Postwatch respond to Davidson
The site entry "What led to your change of heart?" (see below) contains extracts of a letter Pontypridd AM Jane Davidson sent to Postwatch Wales' Chairman Eifion Pritchard on January 21st.
The letter outlines Ms Davidson's shock at the decision to close our post office and makes reference to Postwatch Wales' perceived capitulation; how they initially backed our branch to the hilt but then suddenly withdrew their support for us at the last minute.
Today I received a copy of Mr Pritchard's response to Ms Davidson's letter (many thanks to Chris Williams in Jane's office for faxing me a copy)
The letter, dated January 30th, makes very interesting reading indeed.
Sadly, it confirms the growing view in our town that Postwatch Wales are a toothless organisation incapable of both loyally pursuing and robustly expressing an argument to its appropriate end.
The letter begins by padding out the procedures followed by Postwatch Wales in its dealings with Post Office Ltd.
It's not until well into page 2, after Postwatch outline the powerful and numerous reasons for maintaining our branch, that the specific reasons for closing it are reached.
Mr Pritchard writes: "...at the second stage of the review process we again argued strongly for the post office to remain open, citing aforementioned evidence.
"However Post Office Ltd set out their position with reference to pertinent local factors and the Government-prescribed access criteria, and made it clear that they would not change their decision to close the branch.
"It was therefore agreed that the review process would not progress and that Post Office Ltd would proceed with the closure.
"Specifically, at the second stage of the review process, Post Office Ltd cited the relatively low customer usage at the branch, and stated that although small businesses would be inconvenienced, as the nearest branch was less than a mile and most business customers drove, this inconvenience was not justification for retaining the branch.
"Post Office Ltd also stated that they had serious concerns over the long term sustainability of the Llantrisant branch, as there were two nearby alternative post offices.
"At the meeting it was agreed Post Office Ltd would:
* Write to the local authority and bus company to seek the movement of one of the bus stops to a safer area and also to provide a shelter at the bus stop.
* Liaise with the subpostmaster at the nearest branch in connection with the installation of a "combi" till on the retail side of the business.
* Scope possible alternative businesses in the area where stamps can be sold.
"I should stress that the decision to proceed with the closure," concludes Mr Pritchard, "was made by Post Office Ltd."
Detailed reaction and analysis of this letter will follow.
The letter outlines Ms Davidson's shock at the decision to close our post office and makes reference to Postwatch Wales' perceived capitulation; how they initially backed our branch to the hilt but then suddenly withdrew their support for us at the last minute.
Today I received a copy of Mr Pritchard's response to Ms Davidson's letter (many thanks to Chris Williams in Jane's office for faxing me a copy)
The letter, dated January 30th, makes very interesting reading indeed.
Sadly, it confirms the growing view in our town that Postwatch Wales are a toothless organisation incapable of both loyally pursuing and robustly expressing an argument to its appropriate end.
The letter begins by padding out the procedures followed by Postwatch Wales in its dealings with Post Office Ltd.
It's not until well into page 2, after Postwatch outline the powerful and numerous reasons for maintaining our branch, that the specific reasons for closing it are reached.
Mr Pritchard writes: "...at the second stage of the review process we again argued strongly for the post office to remain open, citing aforementioned evidence.
"However Post Office Ltd set out their position with reference to pertinent local factors and the Government-prescribed access criteria, and made it clear that they would not change their decision to close the branch.
"It was therefore agreed that the review process would not progress and that Post Office Ltd would proceed with the closure.
"Specifically, at the second stage of the review process, Post Office Ltd cited the relatively low customer usage at the branch, and stated that although small businesses would be inconvenienced, as the nearest branch was less than a mile and most business customers drove, this inconvenience was not justification for retaining the branch.
"Post Office Ltd also stated that they had serious concerns over the long term sustainability of the Llantrisant branch, as there were two nearby alternative post offices.
"At the meeting it was agreed Post Office Ltd would:
* Write to the local authority and bus company to seek the movement of one of the bus stops to a safer area and also to provide a shelter at the bus stop.
* Liaise with the subpostmaster at the nearest branch in connection with the installation of a "combi" till on the retail side of the business.
* Scope possible alternative businesses in the area where stamps can be sold.
"I should stress that the decision to proceed with the closure," concludes Mr Pritchard, "was made by Post Office Ltd."
Detailed reaction and analysis of this letter will follow.
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