Post Office is hit by mystery snag

Regular customers at the busy shop, close to Lenzie railway station, have been advised in a window notice from sub-postmistress Louise Dar that the normal run of Post Office services aren’t currently available due to “unforseen circumstances”.

A member of staff said auditors were working on the unexplained snag, and that he hoped the service would be restored soon.

The U-Save store acquired the local post office franchise at the end of last year, when former East Dunbartonshire MP Jo Swinson helped to launch the service.

The move from the former Post Office to a shop was part of a UK-wide strategy pursued by the Post Office, aimed at closing what are seen as under-performing main offices to transfer services to shops.

It is argued this will create a more flexible service with longer operating hours and a more modern style of service, but some aren’t convinced that post office services in shops can offer the same level of service.

The Herald asked the Post Office why the Lenzie facility had hit difficulties, and when it would be restored, and a spokesperson said: “ We would like to apologise for any inconvenience caused by the temporary closure of the Post Office branch in Lenzie.

“We would like to reassure customers that we are working hard to restore a service to the community and are committed to maintaining services in the area.

“In the meantime, customers can access Post Office services at Kirkintilloch, and Merkland.”

However the spokesperson refused to go into any detail about the problem, or say when it might be resolved, commenting: “The reason for the closure is a matter between the postmistress and Post Office Ltd and for that reason we are unable to comment further.”