Local government leaders have vowed to save post offices facing the axe. The Local Government Association said the small businesses were a lifeline for many communities, and called on the Post Office to consult fully with communities before any closure decisions were made. The LGA's regeneration board chairman, Cllr David Sparks, pledged to keep as many as possible trading. He said: ‘For many people, the Post Office is the lifeblood of the high street, and the role post offices play in helping people conduct their financial affairs in cash is vital. ‘Councils have long battled against closure of post offices, working with local residents to find new, fresh and innovative ways to make sure that post office counter services are not lost to people who live in rural or disadvantaged areas. ‘If the Post Office decides that a branch should be considered for closure, then it is only right that local people and local councils are given the facts.' The LGA has asked managing director of the Post Office, Alan Cook, for more information on the anticipated impact on local economies and availability of local transport to the next closest post office branch.
