Putney will lose its main branch post office this weekend, with the building turned into a new franchised post office and mini market when it opens its doors on Monday.

This week the union that represents post office workers, Putney MP Tony Colman and the Putney Society have all vowed to keep a close eye on standards at the new office.

A bitter campaign was fought to keep the main branch office open, but consultation was labelled a sham when it was discovered a new contract was signed before a key public meeting was held.

The Post Office says falling turnover and the need to continue funding small rural post offices meant the closure was inevitable. The same services will be provided and staff will receive the same training, it promises.

Communication Workers Union (CWU) representative Ian Ward this week thanked all the Putney residents and groups that fought the campaign.

"Unfortunately, the Post Office has failed to listen to reasoned argument and carried on regardless," he said.

"The CWU will continue to monitor the situation at Putney and will continue to oppose the privatisation or closure of any main branch post office."

Tony Colman has raised the matter in Parliament and has asked ministers to look again at the policy of franchising and issues of public consultation.

November 12, 2001 12:00