THE Post Office in Thornbury could be on the move following plans to relocate to a new branch.

A six-week public consultation has begun to give residents more information and a chance to comment on the proposed move from the current site in the Co-op food store on the High Street to a stand-alone base in St Mary Centre.

As well as the addition of foreign currency and other services to those already on offer, the new post office would be open for six and a half hours more per week, Monday to Saturday, from 8.30am to 5.30pm.

The relocation would be part of a modernisation programme across the Post Office which, bosses say, will make it easier for customers to do business.

It will include open-plan environments, with a mixture of one full-screened counter, two open-plan and a Post Office serving point at the retail counter, offering selected services.

Cllr David Chubb, South Gloucestershire councillor for Thornbury north, said: “It is a great vote of confidence in our town and high street that the Post Office is looking to expand its presence in the precinct. 

“As many other areas have seen their post office reduced and, in some cases closed, I am delighted Thornbury may have a chance to see a full service here.

“I would encourage as many local people as possible to respond to the consultation with their thoughts.”

Post Office regional network manager Will Russell said: “We are making it easier for customers to get their cash, send and collect their mail and do their banking because we know how important these services are to local residents. 

“We are confident that this vibrant new-style Post Office at the heart of the local community will meet customer needs. 

“This modernisation is part of a major investment programme, the largest in the history of the Post Office, and will secure services for the future.”

As part of the six-week consultation, members of the public are being invited to present their feedback and issues to the Post Office, prior to the closing date on September 16.

Submissions can be made during the consultation by Freepost via Your Comments to Post Office Ltd, by emailing comments@postoffice.co.uk, by calling 03457 223344 or texting 03457 223355.

Customers can also share their views online through an online questionnaire at postofficeviews.co.uk using the branch code 316511.