BEACON Hill could have a new post office if plans to relocate the existing post office to a former convenience store nearby, get the go ahead.

Proposals are for a modern local-style branch with Post Office services and longer opening hours, including Sundays, alongside the retail counter of the currently empty shop in Hampton Terrace, Beacon Hill.

The opening hours would be Monday to Saturday (7am-8pm) and Sunday (7am-4pm) giving its customers earlier and later opening hours during the week, as well as Sunday opening.

It would also involve improved access and comes with the current post master’s agreement.

The Post Office’s regional network manager Suzanne Richardson 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 this vibrant new-style post office at the heart of the local community will meet customer needs.

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

In the meantime, Fernhurst residents will lose their Saturday Post Office opening after it was agreed to move the current branch to a shop in Vann Road. No date for the opening has been announced.

Post Office services will be provided from an open-plan counter alongside the retail counter of the electrical retailer Dudman-Ward which will be open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 9am until 5pm; and Wednesday (9am-1pm).

The change will mean the branch would no longer close at lunchtimes, but will not be open on a Saturday.

The main feedback from a public consultation about the move included location, closure of the branch on Saturdays, availability of space inside the proposed shop and the level of service that would be provided following the change. Some feedback commented that the proposed new branch would be closer and easier to access.

The new location is approximately 90 yards away from the current site with a free car park to the rear of the new premises.

There is a step at the main entrance of the new premises, but a handrail will be installed along with a bell and signage to enable customers with mobility issues to summon assistance.

Other improvements are also being considered. The new-style branch will be built in line with Post Office specifications to ensure sufficient space for the new style branch to operate alongside the retail outlet.

A?Post Office spokeswoman said: “We acknowledge the change will mean the loss of Saturday opening for which we apologise, however, the new operator does not open his existing shop on a Saturday.

“While our aim is always to provide more convenient opening hours for customers, our main priority is to ensure a long-term sustainable service for the whole community.”

• The proposed move at Beacon Hill is now open for public comment. The consultation closes on October 31.

Submissions can be made during the consultation by Freepost Your Comments to Post Office, or calling the customer helpline on 03457 22 33 44 (textphone 03457 223355). Email [email protected]

Customers can also share their views online through a quick and easy questionnaire at www.postofficeviews .co.uk – use the branch code 112923.