The Post Office has annouced that despite a high level of local opposition to their plans that they are to go ahead and close the Post Office inside Paydens on Station road East. The Station Road West and Holland Post Offices will remain open. This is clearly a blow to all local residents who will have to travel further and queue for much longer when they get there.
The full text of the Post Office decision is below:
'Respondents’ main concerns related to the ability of alternative branches to cope with the expected additional customer levels resulting from the closure of this branch. Respondents were also concerned that parking was insufficient at the alternative branches and that the journey to each alternative branch was difficult.
The two closest alternative branches are located within one mile of Station Road East Oxted, the closest alternative being Oxted Post Office which is located approximately half a mile away. Oxtedbranch has more serving positions, offers a wider range of products, including motor vehicle licensing,and has ramp access to help customers in wheelchairs or with buggies. There is a regular bus service toboth Oxted and Limpsfield Post Office branches from Station Road East Oxted branch and both bus services offer free off-peak travel for senior citizens and disabled passengers. Low-level floors are
provided on some buses to assist passengers. Approximately 86% of local households own a car or van and parking is available near both suggested alternative branches for customers who have accessto private transport.
Post Office Limited has carefully considered all the feedback received during the local public consultation relating to this branch, including two petitions as well as correspondence from the local MP, Peter Ainsworth, Oxted Parish Council and the Oxted Chamber of Commerce.
Having regard to these and all other relevant factors, Post Office Limited has decided to proceed with the closure of this branch.'
