LOCHMABEN’S Post Office counter has had a smooth transition to a new shop.
The outreach service, which was in Pettigrew’s until it closed for good last month, is now operational in Costcutter at 4 High Street.
Postal and banking services are available at the branch on Mondays from 2 pm to 4 pm and Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 am to 4 pm.
The Post Office kiosk’s timely move has been welcomed by Annandale North councillor, Adam Wilson, who said: “A number of residents in Lochmaben rely on vital post office services. I encourage local residents to make their voices heard on the new arrangements.
“A number of residents have raised with me the limited opening times since I was elected in 2017, this is an opportunity to make your views heard.”
South Scotland MSP Colin Smyth added: “I am pleased we now have confirmation of the arrangements for a continuation of the outreach service for Lochmanben.
“Sadly, right across Dumfries and Galloway we have seen closure after closure of Post Offices and complete inaction by the Scottish and UK Government to protect these vital local services.
“The pandemic has had a massive impact on the retail sector and our Post Offices are no exception. It highlights the need to look again at what help is being provided to businesses to get through this pandemic and how we put in place proper support to maintain a Post Office network in the long term before we have further closures.
“Having a Post Office in the community is vital for so many of my constituents, particularly those who are older or people who can’t travel easily.”
