Edgbaston, Hall Green, Sparkbrook and Small Heath, Northfield, Selly Oak and Yardley could lose one in three of their branches if the plans are agreed.

The Post Office says the move is necessary to improve the long term prospects of other branches in the area.

A six-week consultation on the plans was started on Wednesday.

It follows a review of the area's network of 90 offices as part of a national programme to restructure and modernise branches.

Customers are being asked for their opinions on the closures and the services provided by the remaining 61 branches.

Paul Maisey, the Post Office's head of area, said: "All of the branches we propose to close are poorly used, have suffered from under investment and many are located in premises that are too small.

"In each case the sub postmaster is unable to invest in the branch because of lack of profit available from running the business.

"There are reasonable public transport links, many of which are direct, to at least one of the alternative branches located in much more vibrant shopping areas." have, as far as possible, been taken into account. "

He said no final decision would be taken until they have considered all the views on the proposals.