The group of Councillors heading up the Post Office Action Campaign achieved another step forward in improving facilities in Shepton Mallet last week with a meeting about current NatWest provision and Post Office services.
The meeting was to establish why NatWest are closing their branch and to address some concerns about the capacity and ability of the current Post Office arrangements to deal with new demands.
NatWest gave clear indications on why the Shepton Mallet Branch is closing and McColls demonstrated that they were very aware of issues arising from current performance.
Cllr John Parham said “It was very disappointing to learn that there was absolutely no room for any change of mind as far as NatWest is concerned, but we did make it clear that it was unacceptable to entrust their clients with our malfunctioning Post Office and both they and the Post Office representatives have agreed that improvements will be made”.
Following on from those comments, Cllr Judy Bartlett said “NatWest have confirmed they will still pursue the closure of Shepton Mallet branch in August. It is imperative they ensure that the Post Office facilities are greatly enhanced and made much more efficient and user friendly”.
Speaking about the Post Office, Cllr Bente Height said “NatWest believe that transferring their customer's to the Post Office is going to be successful, McColls are now working to train and employ new staff on higher rates. The company contemplate employing more staff than the existing team, should there be illness amongst the staff. It would have been appropriate had this been done a long time ago”.
Acknowledging progress in the meeting, Cllr Jeannette Marsh said “I am pleased McColls has acknowledged there is a significant problem in our Post Office and did not shy away from the fact. They have promised to address this immediately and we have secured another meeting with them and NatWest to ensure this actually happens. We cannot and will not let our eye off the ball, the Town deserves a Post Office service that is fit for purpose”.
The meeting discussed many options for monitoring the matter. Ideas were brought up from all sides of the table. Cllr Simon Davies said “We need to get this matter sorted for the sort of trade we have in a market town. Hopefully some automated facilities can be brought forward (both for banking and Post Office services) and the ATM retained, so those that can utilise these services can do so”.