Thursday June 10th 2021
The Post Office located within the Spar in Woodburn, Dalkeith is to close.
CJ Lang who operate SPAR stores throughout Scotland have announced that they intend to close 31 of their Post Office branches which includes the Woodburn branch in Dalkeith.
They have been offered support from the Post Office who will continue discussions with CJ Lang to keep local branches open.
This would be the fourth Post Office closure in the area in the last few years, with the Post Offices at Eskbank Trading, Bonnyrigg and Newtongrange having closed since 2017. It would leave the Post Offices at Mayfield and the one within WH Smith as the only permanent Post Offices serving the Dalkeith, Bonnyrigg and Newtongrange area. There is a Post Office in Bonnyrigg which is only open 11:00-15:00 on a Monday.
Midlothian MSP, Colin Beattie, commented:
“I am disappointed at CJ Lang’s intention to close the Woodburn Post Office branch. I firmly believe post offices offer vital services which are important to preserving our communities and ensuring that those living here have the facilities that they need.
“I have requested a meeting with both CJ Lang to discuss this decision and the Post Office to discuss possible alternatives.
“In the meantime, I do hope CJ Lang accept the on-going support being given by the Post Office and review their decision to close this branch.”
Owen Thompson MP has urged a rethink of the decision to close the Post Office within the Spar store on Woodburn Road, Dalkeith.
The Midlothian MP has today written to the Chief Executive of CJ Lang & Son Ltd who own the Spar group, pointing out the important role this service plays in the local community.
Mr Thompson has requested a meeting with the CEO to discuss his concerns and seek solutions which could keep the post office services running in the area. He said:-
“This post office branch serves an area deeply affected by social deprivation and it is a lifeline for many older, disabled and less mobile residents. Losing this service will be a very big blow for the community.
“Time and again we hear of post offices picking up the pieces when the banks close, but when the post office branch closes too it leaves vulnerable people with no other accessible options. It can cut their financial independence and increase social isolation. At a time when we are trying to rebuild after Covid, this is the last thing we need.
“I am always encouraging people to shop locally and use their high streets, but it is an easier sell when there are more services available.
“I hope Spar will be prepared to meet with me and we can work to overcome whatever obstacles there are to keep this vital service open.”
Updated 10/06/21 17:35 with comment from Owen Thompson.
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