Stamped out?

The potential closure of the facility has sparked fears that the Irish Street area will be adversely affected if the much-used community PO closes. Recently residents and local councillors in Ballymagroarty lost the battle to retain their Post Office services at Springtown shopping Centre,

The City Council was informed of plans to include the Lisnagelvin branch at Irish Street in the latest revision of the Post Office network over a week ago.

In his letter to the council the Royal Mail's field change advisor, Eugene McMahon, said: "I am writing to make you aware that we will shortly be carrying out a public consultation on some proposed changes to Lisnagelvin Posts Office. A further letter will be sent to you in due course outlining our proposal."

Mr McMahon said where change was planned Royal Mail hoped to be able to engage proactively and seek views and information that may be relevant.

Already there are fears that the most vulnerable in the area will face severe disadvantage if their Post Office is relocated.

Meanwhile, Stanley McCobb who runs the Day Today shop next to the Post Office, said if the Post Office closed it would "seriously effect" his business.

"Business here increased after the closure of Bonds Street Post Office. A lot of people still like to go to the Post office here because they have access to parking and can nip in and go again quickly or combine it with a visit to the shop. There is much better access to this Post office, and older people find it more accessible.

"Moving the Post Office to another area will greatly handicap older people and other vulnerable groups, like single mums who do not have access to cars," he said, adding:"The official notice of intent to consult will be posted in June and I hope there will be a good response from the people in the Irish Street area. The needs of the community will be impacted on if the Post Office closes, so opposition to closure needs community support."

Alderman Mary Hamilton warned that the closure of the Post Office would "leave the Irish Street area desolate".

"Once before the Post Office there came under threat of closure, but a petition was set up by the residents and it was reprieved. Then Bonds Street Post Office closed and a Post Office opened in Gee's Supermarket. I know from speaking to people that the elderly residents of Irish Street don't want to cross that busy road to get to the supermarket, and they don't want their pensions paid into bank accounts they want it in their hand," she said.

"Both shopkeepers at Irish Street are devastated at this move by Royal Mail. Once you close the Post Office the whole area will be left desolate and it will effect their businesses," she said.

A spokesperson for Post Office Ltd, said: "Post Office Ltd can confirm that they are proposing to make some changes to the way their services are being provided in the Lisnagelvin area of Londonderry. Full details will be provided on June 2 when a full public consultation will commence."

Those wishing to register their thoughts or feelings with the Royal Mail can do so through their customer helpline on 08457223344, on textphone at 08457223355, and online at www.postoffice.co.uk, alternatively write to Post Office Limited, c/o National Consultation Team, PO Box 2060, Watford, WD18 8ZW.