Lib Dems petition to save Bideford Post Office

A petition has been launched by the Liberal Democrats to protect Post Office services in Bideford town centre, following news that the Main Post Office could face closure.

The political party has described the potential closure as a “kick in the teeth for regeneration,” demonstrating the crucial role the Post Office plays in the community. 

The party explained that unlike franchise-operated branches in Northam, East-the-Water, and Bideford Old Town, the Bideford branch is one of 115 wholly owned Post Offices nationwide. 

It operates Monday to Saturday from 9am to 5pm, offering essential services such as passport and licence applications, Parcelforce, and foreign currency exchange.

Councillor Teresa Tinsley expressed her concerns, saying: “This makes no sense. The Post Office has been filling a vital gap left by bank closures. It provides vital services to the community and drives footfall in the town centre. It’s a kick in the teeth for regeneration. We need to safeguard the full range of services at the heart of our community.”

Phil Hutty, Lib Dem Parliamentary spokesperson for Torridge and Tavistock, added:“The Post Office is a vital service in the heart of Bideford. It can't be left without the essential services provided to so many people across our area.”

Residents have voiced their frustration online, citing the loss of banks in the area and the Post Office’s role in supporting local commerce. Comments included:

• “They've shut all but one bank in town, telling us to use the Post Office instead, so what will they advise people do now?”
• “There's no justification on closing it as no matter what day or time there's a queue. At Christmas they queue across the pavement!”
• “When they closed HSBC bank the staff were on hand to promote the Post Office. This is what brings people into the town who spend money at the local shops. Don't let this happen.”

If the closure goes ahead, the nearest Main Post Office would be in Barnstaple, leaving Bideford residents without a full-service branch.

The Lib Dem petition can be signed at: https://www.twdld.org.uk/campaigns/save-bideford-post-office