Keighley’s main post office has been transferred to the WH Smith store in the Airedale Shopping Centre.

The facility has been operating in its new home for a week after moving out of its old Towngate base.

Campaigners had fought unsuccessfully to retain the original premises, arguing the closure would be a “disaster” for the town. They said it would result in an inferior service, and that there would be insufficient room within the WH Smith store to house the facility.

Postal chiefs rejected these allegations, saying the layout of the WH Smith outlet would be re-configured to create enough space.

The new post office has seven counters – four open plan and three secure – and includes a queuing area.

A Post Office spokesman said: “We have been pleased with customers’ reaction to the new Keighley Post Office service.

“We have had positive feedback on the look and layout, with people telling us they are surprised the post office area has so much space in WH Smith.

“It was particularly heartening to hear the response of some customers using wheelchairs and other mobility aids, who said access was even better than it was in the former branch.

“Other customers also told us the quality of service has been good. The benefits of the extended opening hours, particularly on Sundays, have been another positive.”

Labour’s prospective parliamentary candidate for Keighley, John Grogan, who had fought the move, said: “As with any other new business venture in Keighley, I wish the post office in WH Smith well.

“But I do have a couple of concerns. All the nine staff there are on the minimum wage, so I do have worries about retention and motivation of staff.

“The new facility does seem a bit cramped, and come the Christmas rush, it could be a bit chaotic.”

The branch in WH Smith opens Monday to Saturday from 9am to 5.30pm and on Sundays from 11am to 3pm.