Scottish Conservatives Murdo Fraser MSP and Councillor John Duff have expressed their concern for the loss of a post office in Highland Perthshire and they hope a business can be found to take it over.
The politicians were reacting to the announcement that the post office in Kenmore closed its doors on May 20. The Post Office has said they are currently looking into other options.
Commenting, Mr Fraser, who represents the Mid Scotland and Fife region, said: “I am concerned to hear that the Kenmore post office has now closed. I understand the reasons why the Post Office have taken this decision as it followed the resignation of the postmaster, but we are seeing more and more local post offices close their doors. It is particularly concerning for elderly residents as some of them won’t have access to online services and they see a local post office as the lifeblood of a community.
“The nearest post office facilities for local residents now is either at Aberfeldy, which is six miles from Kenmore, or at Strathtay, which is approximately 11 miles from Kenmore. This is bearable if you have a car but not so convenient if you have to rely on public transport.
“I hope the Post Office find a suitable business who can take over the running of the post office in Kenmore. They have said that this could be a local style branch which runs alongside an established retail shop, so this sounds like it could be a possible option.”
And Councillor John Duff, who represents the Highland Ward for the Scottish Conservatives, added: “The Post Office and shop situated in the village square were the heart of the community and its loss will be keenly felt not just by residents of the village but for all those who live around Loch Tay. It would be good if an alternative outlet could be found in the area to take the service on, although there are a limited number of options. Given its rural location and the number of visitors who come to the area, reinstatement of the Post Office service is vital and I will do everything I can to support the Post Office’s search for a new location in the area.”
