Campaign launched to save city centre post office

An MP has launched a campaign to protect post office services in Wakefield city centre following the announcement of a branch closure.

TG Jones, previously WH Smith, has said it will close the branch at its store in Trinity Walk Shopping Centre at the end of February 2026, with the Post Office confirming it had started the process of finding an alternative site.

Simon Lightwood, Labour MP for Wakefield and Rothwell, urged residents and businesses to sign a petition calling for "this vital service" that people "rely on" to be retained in the city centre.

He said: "A post office in the heart of Wakefield is essential."

Lightwood said he was working closely with the Post Office, Wakefield Council and the local business community to fight for a continued presence of facilities in the city centre, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

"Many older residents and those without easy access to online services depend on it for independence and convenience," he said.

"Local businesses also rely on the post office to send goods and manage transactions."

He also expressed concern for branch staff "particularly given the timing of the closure during their busiest season".

"Keeping a post office in the city centre ensures these services remain accessible to all and helps maintain a vibrant, thriving city centre," he said.

Jack Hemingway, the council's portfolio holder for regeneration and economic growth, agreed, saying the council was working with businesses, partners and stakeholders to ensure the post office finds an alternative site.

Thomas Wales, chief executive of Wakefield Business Improvement District, said: "A functioning post office in the city centre is essential for our businesses.

"Its closure would create unnecessary barriers for those working hard to keep Wakefield's economy moving."

A Post Office spokesperson said the firm was "liaising closely" with TG Jones, adding: "There are a number of alternative post offices nearby and we have already started the process of identifying a new operator for Wakefield Post Office in the event that this branch has to close."

Listen to highlights from West Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North.