Post Office users in the Whitletts area of Ayr will have to wait until early next year before full-time services return to the community.
Ayrshire Live can reveal that the new Post Office, to be based out of Libby’s Convenience Store, in Whitletts Road, won’t open until Friday, January 13.
The previous Post Office branch, at the Spar store at 74 Main Road, Ayr, closed in September 2021.
The office fell victim to Spar’s decision to axe more than 30 Post Office counters, which it said were not "financially viable." Forehill Post Office also closed as part of the cuts.
That closure prompted a campaign by community figures, councillors and MSPs to retain services.
Thankfully, a deal was struck earlier this year to retain services out of Libby’s Convenience Store (Premier Express).
However, the opening date means the community must bide its time- and make other arrangements during the run-up to one of the busiest times of the year for Post Office services- before a full-time service is back in operation.
Scott Hamilton, Post Office network provision lead, said: “We are delighted to soon be restoring a Post Office to this area as we know how important a Post Office is to a community.”
The new branch will be approximately 100 metres from the previous branch. There is roadside car parking nearby. Public transport is available to and from the surrounding areas. There is a bus stop outside the new location.
Some alterations will be made at the new Post Office base in order to make it more accessible to older people and those with a disability.
A Post Office spokesperson said: “We acknowledge that the entrance steps may cause difficulty for some.
“Over the coming months, the new Postmaster will work with the local council and contractors to look at solutions to improve access into the paved area at the front of the shop.
“In the meantime, there will be a bell and signage to request assistance.”
The opening hours of the new branch will be Monday to Friday (9am – 5pm), Saturday (9am – 12noon). This will offer 43 hours of Post Office service a week.
In the interim, alternative branches include Hawkhill, Tam’s Brig, New Prestwick and Ayr.
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