MP calls for clarity on future of Bideford Post Office

Torridge and Tavistock MP Sir Geoffrey Cox KC is pressing for urgent clarification on the future of Bideford’s main Post Office, amid concerns it could face closure.

The Conservative MP has raised the issue following discussions with senior figures at the Post Office, who have indicated a decision regarding the town’s Crown Post Office – a directly managed branch – is expected in the coming weeks.

Sir Geoffrey confirmed he has been in ongoing contact with executives after learning of wider plans to franchise the remaining Crown Post Offices across the country. 

Under the proposals, branches that fail to secure a franchise partner or attract sufficient investment could be at risk of shutting down.

Sir Geoffrey said: “Having received worrying reports at the end of last year that Bideford’s Crown Post Office could be closed, I have closely monitored the developing situation, writing directly to the CEO of the Post Office to voice my personal objection to any decision that would result in a reduction of the vital, personal administrative services that the Crown Post Office in the town currently offers to all residents in Bideford and the surrounding area.

“The Post Office undertook to keep me fully informed and allow for consultation prior to any decision to change the Crown Post Office’s status in Bideford.”

While no final decision has been made, Post Office officials have assured Sir Geoffrey that full postal services – including cash deposits, withdrawals, and government functions such as passport applications – would remain available at any potential new or alternative main branch.

Sir Geoffrey added: “Despite any pending decision, there will be no reduction in postal services in Bideford and that the town will continue to retain the full range of services, including cash deposits and withdrawals and key government services, such as passport applications, at any prospective new or alternative main branch. I intend to hold the management of the Post Office to these assurances.

“I would like to reassure all those who continue to use the vital functions at the main Post Office in the town that I remain in continuous contact with Government Ministers, and senior officials at the Post Office. I will continue to urge the Post Office to retain our Crown Post Office and at the very least to permit no diminution of the available services.”