Urban post offices are threatened by dwindling business

Another two in Rotherham may also have to shut up shop as part of the plans, which have angered local customers.

The Post Office says there are too many urban branches competing for too little business so it has started a programme of restructuring.

Closing 16 branches in Sheffield would ensure the viability of the remaining 71 in the city, it claimed.

The Post Office says it will consider the views of customers before a final decision is made, but it is likely the 16 Sheffield branches will close in July.

A Post Office spokesman said: "The harsh reality is that many urban offices are struggling to survive because there are too many branches for the amount of business.

Proposed branch closures Chesterfield Road (Heeley) Dalewood (Heeley) Richmond Road (Heeley) Chippinghouse Road (Central) Duke Street (Central) Eccleshall Road (Central) Lower Manor (Central) Verdon Street (Central) Washington Road (Central) Wybourn (Central) Brightside (Brightside) Ecclesfield ((Hillsborough) Middlewood Road (Hillsborough) Walkley (Hillsborough) Ballifield (Attercliffe) Base Green (Attercliffe)

"These post offices 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."

Meanwhile, residents in Rotherham are being consulted about the two proposed closures in College Road and Eastwood View, off Doncaster Road.

Rotherham councillor Robin Stonebridge said: "Post offices are at the hub of the community.

"For people who are elderly or on benefits they are a vital line of information and banking.

"We feel it is vital that we look at post offices and where they are going because there seems to be a real drift in policy.