Talks to find a new home for Post Office facilities in Whitletts have failed.
The Post Office had previously said they were in discussions with a local retailer with a view to introducing a counter to replace the one that used to be operated from Spar.
Those discussions appear to have ended without agreement. However, the Post Office has said it is in early talks with other potential partners.
A Post Office spokesperson said: “We are working hard to try to restore Post Office services to Whitletts area of Ayr as soon as possible.
“The vacancy has been advertised and the field team has visited retailers. We have an interested retailer. Talks are at an early stage. In the meantime, alternative branches include Hawkhill, Tam's Brig and New Prestwick.”
Labour's Colin Smyth, who campaigned to save the facility, said that the issue wasn’t confined to this area as he hit out at the UK Government for its lack of action.
The South Scotland MSP said: “I am extremely disappointed to hear the news that talks to move the Whitletts Post Office counter to another shop have collapsed and I will be urging Post Office to ensure that an alternative is found as soon as possible.
“There was a lot of anger over the initial decision by CJ Lang to pull the plug on these services in some of the Spar shops they own, especially given that these were all profitable, viable Post Office counters.
“The one in Whitletts was always especially busy. There are alternative premises in the area and options for relocation but it really needs an existing business to run it as part of their existing shop and I would appeal to anyone interested to come forward.
“Having a Post Office in the community is vital for so many of my constituents, particularly those who are older or people who can’t travel easily.
“Sadly, right across the region we have seen closure after closure of Post Offices and complete inaction by the UK Government to keep them open.
“Every closure is a huge blow to the region, and a further cut in the number of Post Offices across Ayrshire.”
Ayr SNP MSP Siobhain Brown has asked the Post Office about the latest disappointing news.
She said: “It comes as unwelcome news that talks for a Post Office counter have fallen through. Post Offices provide a vital service for our communities.
“I have been liaising closely with constituents and the Post Office regarding this matter.
“I have written to the Post Office to ask why the new counter will no longer be going ahead, and what provisions will be put in place for local residents.”
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