Thatcham Post Office Closure: What happens next

Since yesterday, my team and I have been hearing from a large number of residents in Thatcham about the planned closure of the Post Office at Morrisons on 13 July.

I want to start by thanking everyone who has taken the time to get in touch. I know how important this service is to everyday life in the town, and I completely understand the concern and frustration people are feeling.

As a resident myself, I know just how much people rely on their local Post Office, not only for sending parcels, but for banking, paying bills, and day-to-day practical support.

This closure follows Morrisons’ decision to shut the store. As the Post Office operates inside that branch, it will close as a result.

However, what has particularly concerned many residents and staff is that this closure does not appear to have been clearly communicated locally in advance, with many people finding out only through word of mouth rather than an official announcement. That lack of clarity has understandably added to the frustration and uncertainty in the community.

I have also spoken with the current Post Office manager, who is understandably upset and frustrated by both the decision and the very short notice given. They care deeply about the service and the community they’ve been serving, and I know how difficult this uncertainty is for staff right now.

Since the announcement, my team and I have:

• Written to Post Office Ltd

• Visited the branch

• Spoken with the manager

• Written to Morrisons about their decision

• Asked what immediate steps will be taken to protect access to services in Thatcham

  
  

I am grateful to Post Office Ltd for responding so quickly to my query and confirming it will begin exploring options for a new operator in Thatcham. At this stage, however, there is no confirmed replacement, and no clear public consultation took place ahead of the closure.

We cannot assume a new branch will simply appear; we need to actively make the case for one.

Over the coming days, I will be writing to local businesses across Thatcham to encourage them to consider applying to host a Post Office. Many communities successfully run Post Offices from within local shops, and I want to make sure we give Thatcham the strongest possible chance of securing a replacement service.

In the meantime, there are alternative branches nearby, and the new Banking Hub will provide access to basic banking services. However, I know this is not the same as having a full Post Office in the town.

I will continue pushing for a long-term solution and will keep residents updated as soon as I have further information.

If you are a local business owner who may be interested in hosting a Post Office, or have suggestions for suitable locations, please do get in touch.