THE Post Office branch in Westmoreland Street, Skipton, is facing the axe as part of a major modernisation programme across the country.

Post Office bosses want it to re-emerge about 80 yards away in the Spar shop in Sackville Street as a "modern open plan local style branch with extended opening hours".

A six-week long consultation period has been launched in which customers are invited to have their say about the proposal.

If it goes ahead, the new branch will open from 7am to 10pm on Monday to Friday and 7am to 11pm Saturday and Sunday, providing an extra 61 hours of Post Office service every week.

Suzanne Richardson, Post Office regional manager, said: “We understand how important having a Post Office is to residents in Skipton and we are confident that this new modern service will meet the needs of the local community and secure services for the future.

“This modernisation is part of a major investment programme, the largest in the history of the Post Office and marks a commitment to no more branch closure programmes.”

The new branch would offer Post Office products and services throughout shop opening hours from two open-plan tills at the retail counter instead of from a separate screened counter, she said.

Craven District Councillor Andy Solloway (Ind) said: "This is unfortunate news because the Westmoreland Street post office is the only branch in the town apart from the main one in the town centre. I can't see the advantage in moving.

"I would urge everyone who has an opinion about this proposal to get involved in the consultation."

Consultation submissions can be made by Freepost YOUR COMMENTS to Post Office Ltd, via email to comments@postoffice.co.uk, via the Customer Helpline on 03457 223344 or Textphone 03457 223355.

Customers can also share their views online through the quick and easy questionnaire at postofficeviews.co.uk with the branch code 345306.