In response to the retirement of the sub-postmaster and the subsequent closure of the Meriden Post Office on March 28th, a grassroots campaign has been launched urging for the restoration of postal services in the village.
The closure has left residents without vital services, prompting widespread concern within the community. Letters notifying residents of the sub-postmaster’s retirement and the cessation of Post Office operations in the area have only heightened apprehensions.
The nearest alternative Post Office sites are located approximately three miles away in Hampton In Arden and Gramercy Park in Coventry, posing significant inconvenience for Meriden residents.
Meriden MP, Saqib Bhatti, along with Solihull Councillors Heather Delaney, Tony Dicicco, and Andrew Burrow, have united in calling for immediate action, advocating for the introduction of a mobile Post Office to ensure continued access to essential services for all residents.
Mr. Bhatti emphasized the importance of easy access to Post Office services during the temporary closure, stating, “It is vital that people in Meriden village have easy access to Post Office services during the temporary closure of Meriden Post Office… I will continue to campaign on this issue.”
In response to community concerns, the Post Office expressed its intention to resume services as soon as possible, reassuring residents of ongoing efforts to restore operations. The letter to residents conveyed apologies for any inconvenience caused by the closure and encouraged customers to utilize alternative branches in the meantime.
Furthermore, the Post Office welcomed applications from potential retail partners interested in operating a local branch on their behalf, underscoring their commitment to finding a solution to the service disruption in Meriden.