Oswestry's under-threat Post Office 'could become franchise' bosses tell MP

The Post Office has written to North Shropshire MP Helen Morgan to say expressions of interest are being sought for the Oswestry branch.

Chiefs want to see if there is any commercial interest in running the Crown post offices as franchises and are advertising the opportunities from Monday to January 3.

The letter sent to Mrs Morgan said: "The current model has no retail offering, coupled with high property costs and shorter opening hours than franchise branches.

“We have long considered that many of these branches could be financially sustainable if franchised, benefiting customers and postmasters.”

The bosses also told Mrs Morgan that the Post Office has not made any decisions on whether to close Oswestry or any of its 115 other Crown branches, also known as Directly Managed Branches.

It comes as 2,500 residents and businesses have signed Mrs Morgan’s petition protesting the prosposal.

Mrs Morgan said: “Oswestry simply can’t afford to lose another service.

“While it’s good to see the Post Office confirming that no decisions have been made, exploring franchising raises real questions about maintaining the level of service our community depends on.

“I will keep pushing to ensure Oswestry’s needs are not overlooked, particularly given how the Crown branch offers a full range of services to local businesses which would be lost otherwise.

“This is a fight that requires everyone’s support, and I am incredibly thankful to the 2,500 residents who have signed our petition.

“It’s not about politics, it’s about preserving essential services for Oswestry. I will continue to work with colleagues from all parties and keep local residents updated on the situation.”

Mrs Morgan is set to meet Post Office representatives in Parliament and press for greater clarity about the Post Office’s long-term plans.