Minutes:
Members received a statement from Laura Tarling, Public Affairs Manager, Post Office as set out below:
‘Tonbridge Post Office was previously operated as a Franchise by WH Smith from their Tonbridge store. There were plans to redevelop the premises and WH Smith took the decision close their store at the lease expiry on 30th July 2022.
With thanks to Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council, Tonbridge Castle was put forward as a suitable location for a temporary Post Office. The branch opened on 26 August and continues to operate from Tonbridge Castle.
Post Office began the search for a new postmaster with premises for a replacement permanent branch in January 2022. There was a lot of interest from potential applicants but finding suitable premises that were viable for a Post Office and retail business has been challenging.
Premises at 64 High Street were eventually identified, with Heads of Terms agreed between the applicant and landlord. It was known that significant refurbishment works were needed to transform the premises to a retail business and Post Office. The successful applicant was appointed at the end of March, subject to signing the Post Office contract and lease on the premises. Plans to finalise the lease and contract were planned for early in May, due to the applicant being abroad in April.
Unfortunately, following further discussion with the landlord in May, the applicant was not able to agree the lease terms set by the landlord, and decided to withdraw from the premises. The applicant is aware of the urgency to open a permanent Post Office in Tonbridge and there were several factors involved in making this difficult decision. However, the final lease agreement was no longer viable for the applicant.
The applicant is now reviewing alternative premises – there was a site visit on 6 June at a proposed location. The design and location of the Post Office counter at these premises requires further work to make it fit, and discussions regarding the lease are taking place.
Following the temporary branch opening in August, there were customer service issues relating to IT connectivity, and difficulties with staff recruitment resulting in the branch closing for short periods. The applicant for the permanent Post Office is now operating the temporary branch to provide a more consistent service, supported by the Post Office Area Manager.
Post Office apologises to customers who have been affected by the disruption to services in Tonbridge over the past year. Post Office are working closely with the applicant to confirm permanent premises as soon as possible. We will share a further update when new premises are confirmed.
Post Office thank Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council and all stakeholders for their continued support over recent months to help find suitable premises, and for hosting the temporary Post Office at Tonbridge Castle.’
A number of members expressed disappointment that a representative from the Post Office was unable to attend the meeting and noted that the Post Office had indicated that a representative would be in attendance at the next meeting.
The Leader gave his assurance that the provision of a temporary Post Office at the Castle would continue until a permanent location had been identified.