Haverhill Post Office could move a matter of 900 metres if proposed relocation is approved

The Post Office is proposing to move its Haverhill town centre branch into a long-empty premises on the same street.

Haverhill Post Office has for many years been sited inside the building next to Nine Jars and The Suffolk Hotel, opposite St Mary’s Church.

But a proposal is now out for a period of public consultation to relocate it to the opposite end of High Street to the premises once occupied for decades by Henderson’s The Newsagents.

Henderson’s closed in August 2019 after its parent company went into administration and the building has stood unused ever since.

A Post Office spokesperson said, should the move be approved after the consultation, it would continue to operate as ‘one of our main style branches’.

The spokesperson explained that the current branch is currently operated under a short-term contract, adding: “We are therefore proposing to move this branch to an alternative location with a permanent new postmaster, which would be a more sustainable solution.

“A new permanent operator has been appointed who has identified an alternative location to operate Haverhill Post Office.

“The proposed premises, formerly, Henderson’s The Newsagents, is currently empty.

“It would undergo a full refurbishment to incorporate a cards and stationery store with Haverhill Post Office.”

Ironically, Henderson’s was known for offering a wide selection of cards and stationary during the years it was open.

And with the loss of WH Smith, which closed at the end of April, another stationary and cards retailer would be a welcome addition.

There would be three serving positions in total; one screened and two open plan Post Office serving points. It would be in a dedicated area of the store.

The same products and services would still be available and the opening hours would remain as Monday to Saturday: 9am to 5.30pm.

Time restricted roadside parking is available nearby, there is also a pay and display car park on Helions Walk, behind Haverhill Arts Centre.

Consultation over the proposed move will close on August 12.

Customers can share their views during the consultation online with the branch code 002113.

Submissions can also be made via email to comments@postoffice.co.uk, by post to Freepost YOUR COMMENTS, or by telephone 03452 66 01 15 or Textphone 03457 223355.