Safety measures outlined for new Whitehead Post Office

The plans were revealed in a letter from Post Office regional network manager, Suzanne Richardson, to Carrickfergus Borough Council.

Last year, a proposal was outlined to move the branch to the Spar at 26-28 Edward Road, just 150 metres from its current location.

The move is part of an ongoing programme of modernisation across the Post Office network.

However, feedback gathered during a public consultation revealed some concerns about the safety of the new location.

Ms Richardson wrote: “We received a very small number of comments from customers during the local public consultation period, which expressed slight concern about pedestrian safety in accessing the site from the on site car park.

“This feedback helped me to understand customers’ concerns and to make sure that all such information was taken into account before finalising our plans.

“We recognise that the Post Office plays an important part in the lives of customers and we want to make sure our services can be accessed safely.

“I am pleased to confirm there are dropped kerbs at the entrance to the car park, which has marked parking bays including dedicated disabled spaces, with the surface being level and in good repair. There is also a marked walkway directly in front of the entrance doors providing safe access to the shop and the Post Office.”

Indicating that she believed the new branch was ‘suitably located’, Ms Richardson added: “Inside the store, the new branch will be in line with Post Office specifications. We will be working closely will the retail operator in the internal layout and some fixtures and fittings will be re-aligned to make sure there is clear and unimpeded access to the premises.”