'Extremely concerned' MP demands answers over Post Office closure in Scarborough
Scarborough’s MP has called for answers over the ‘extremely concerning’ closure of the town’s main post office.
The permanent closure of the Post Office and TGJones on Westborough next January should be mitigated with temporary provision as soon as possible, the town’s MP Alison Hume said.
TG Jones is closing dozens of stores across the country “to secure the long-term future” of the company, as part of the implementation of a court-approved restructuring plan.
Ms Hume said that Scarborough is a large town with a “significant elderly population, many residents with mobility challenges, and a town centre that serves a wide rural hinterland”.
While the Post Office has identified the Falsgrave Road branch, around 0.7 miles away, as an alternative location as it seeks a permanent replacement, the Labour MP noted that for many constituents, the town centre branch “is the most accessible location for essential services including banking, postal services, bill payments and identity verification”.
“The alternative branches identified in your correspondence are located outside the town centre and may not be suitable or easily accessible for all users.”
In a letter to Mark Gibson, the Post Office’s external affairs manager for the north of England, she added: “I would therefore be grateful if you could clarify what provision Post Office Ltd intends to put in place to maintain an accessible Post Office service within Scarborough town centre.
“In particular, I would welcome details on the timescale for securing a replacement branch, whether any temporary arrangements will be introduced should there be a gap in provision, and how Post Office Ltd intends to ensure that elderly, disabled and vulnerable customers are still able to access services during this period.”
According to the Post Office, a similar range of services will be available at Falsgrave Road, while Newlands Park does not offer Passport Check and Send services.
The store, previously known as WH Smith, is expected to close on Saturday, January 23, 2027, following a closing-down sale.
A spokesperson for TGJones acknowledged the announcement would be “disappointing” for staff and customers and said it was focused on “supporting those affected”.
The Post Office previously said: “The provision of a Post Office service to our customers in the area is important to us, and we are working hard to find a location nearby to continue offering Post Office services to the local community in Scarborough.”