The relocation of a Lanarkshire Post Office has come under criticism with claims that its new premises is too small.
Post Office announced on Friday that the Bellshill Post Office currently on Main Street will close on August 1 due to the expiry of its lease.
It will be moved to Bellshill Convenience Store on nearby Hamilton Road in the town.
However, leader of North Lanarkshire Council Jordan Linden has criticised the Post Office's decision to relocate the branch.
He wrote on social media that he was "thoroughly disappointed" that the Post Office has decided to proceed with moving the branch into the Premier convenience store in Hamilton Road.
He continued: "I remain of the view that the site is inadequate in space, size and layout and that it will have a significant impact in terms of access via parking to name but a few issues."
A letter from the Post Office to customers confirmed the decision, following public consultation.
The current branch will close on Monday, August 1 but the date of its opening at the store is still to be confirmed. In the meantime customers are encouraged to use the branches in North Road and Viewpark Shopping Centre.
The consultation ran from April 22 until June 3 and attracted 96 responses, highlighting concerns over distance, parking accessibility and security.
In response the Post Office said that the new location, 280 metres from the previous site, is based on an "over-riding" need to maintain a service.
There is limited street parking while the Glebe Street car park is 60 metres from the new location and offers free parking for up to two hours.
The layout of the store will be modified to ensure compliance with Post Office standards.
The new location will offer three serving positions and the design will account for the needs of wheelchair users.
In announced the move last week, Post Office said: "We are currently finalising plans to relocate to Premier – Bellshill Convenience Store.
"We remain confident that the layout and location of the new branch will continue to meet customer needs and deliver an excellent service, whilst securing the long-term viability of Post Office services in the local community."
Post Office services will be provided at three serving positions; one screened and two open serving positions.at a low-screened serving point at the retail counter.
The opening hours will be the same as currently Monday to Friday: 8.30am – 5pm; Saturday: 8.30am – 4pm.
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