05 October 2007
Councils say they will lead the fight against the mass closure of post offices, the first wave of which was announced this week.
On October 2, the Post Office announced the first 180 of the 2,500 branches it intends to close before the end of 2008, provoking immediate controversy.
The government, which subsidises the rural post office network, has insisted that cuts must be made, as it is losing £4m a week.
But the Local Government Association has urged proper consultation with local people and said that some branches could be saved with help from local authorities.
David Sparks, chair of the LGA's regeneration board, said: 'The role post offices play in helping people who conduct their financial affairs in cash is vital.'
He added: 'Councils have long battled against the closure of post offices, working with local residents to find innovative ways to make sure that counter services are not lost to people who live in rural or disadvantaged areas.'
The principal impact of the first wave of closures will be felt in Kent, the East Midlands and East Yorkshire.
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