Closure of Oakworth Post Office 'utterly shameful'

Oakworth Post Office – which is housed within the village Co-op store – will shut on May 27, it has been confirmed.

Opponents say many people rely on the facility, and will be hit hard by its closure.

But the Co-op claims the service is "not sustainable".

Post Office Ltd told the Keighley News that it's seeking an operator willing to take on the facility at an alternative site, and is urging anyone interested to get in touch.

A spokesperson said: "The operator of Oakworth Post Office has resigned as the Co-op has made the difficult decision to close the branch facility; it will shut on Tuesday, May 27, at 1pm.

"We know how important a post office is to a community. The vacancy has been advertised at runapostoffice.co.uk, our field team has visited the area, and we are still keen to hear from local retailers about this business opportunity.

"In the interim, alternative branches are Bracken Bank and Oakworth Road."

The Co-op says its decision is necessary to ensure the future viability of the Oakworth store.

"We are committed to creating value for our members and communities and regularly review the added services available in stores," says a spokesperson.

"We understand that removing postal services from our Oakworth store will concern some in the community, and we are sorry. The service in this store is not sustainable and we have notified Post Office Ltd of the difficult decision we've had to take in order to ensure the future viability of the store."

Councillor Luke Maunsell, who represents Oakworth on Keighley Town Council, has hit out at the decision.

He says: "It is utterly shameful that this vital, local resource is being closed and I desperately hope an alternative provider will be found.

"The post office is key for so many people, and a village the size of Oakworth should be given such a provision without question.

"I would encourage anyone who could help save and host the post office to step forward for the good of the community."