Post Office Ltd says its national network of more than 9,000 urban post offices are competing for too little business.

As part of the review, it is proposing to close 11 post offices in the county, which it says will ensure the viability of the remaining offices.

It says if the closures are approved, they will start in November.

The company says it comes after research and discussion with sub postmasters. The proposed closures include one branch in Bishop Auckland, two in Durham City, four in Darlington, two in Stanley, one in Consett and one in Newton Aycliffe.

Head of area, David Mellows-Facer, said: "Proposals to close post offices are not made without considerable research and discussion so we are anxious that customers and all relevant organisations understand why we consider it necessary to reduce the size of our network.

"The harsh reality is that many urban offices are struggling to survive because there are too many branches for the amount of business.

"Post offices in these six constituencies have been adversely affected by a declining number of customers, increasing running costs and the recent change to how benefits are paid with the introduction of direct payment into accounts."

People are being asked to contact the company to give their views on the proposals.