City to keep its central branch of post office

The Post Office has committed to keeping a branch in Wakefield city centre following the closure of another local service.

A Post Office counter at the TG Jones store in the Trinity Walk shopping centre is due to close at the end of February.

A new branch will open at The Springs near Wakefield Minster on 13 March.

Simon Lightwood, MP for Wakefield and Rothwell, said the decision would keep "vital services accessible to all" and would maintain a vibrant and thriving centre.

Lightwood said he was "delighted" at the news.

He said the branch had been secured "thanks to the efforts of local residents, businesses and partners across the city" according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS).

The new outlet will have three counters offering a full range of products and services, stationery and refreshments.

The Trinity Walk site will close on 28 February but other Post Office branches at Stanley Road and Kirkgate will provide services until The Springs opens.

Lightwood said he has also urged the Post Office to transfer existing Trinity Walk staff to its new branch.

"They are hugely valued by residents and businesses alike, and their experience and commitment have been a real asset to the city centre," he said.

He added that the campaign was an example of how the community's collective efforts could lead to a positive outcome.

Wakefield Council said it was "great news" for residents and businesses, and a Post Office was "crucial" to the city's regeneration and economic growth.

Wakefield BID (Business Improvement District) also said it was "really positive".

"Businesses were clear about how important it was to keep Post Office services in the city centre, and it's reassuring to see those voices listened to.

"Securing a new city centre location provides certainty for businesses, supports day-to-day trading and reinforces confidence in Wakefield as a place to do business."

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