A VITAL post office in an ‘isolated’ part of the city is set to close next month.

Garthamlock Post Office will close on Saturday, February 13 after the current operators decided to hand in their keys.

Post Office are now looking for applications from retailers in the area who would be interested in running a branch of the much needed facility.

Local representatives have raised concerns about the move.

Councillor Ruari Kelly said:“I am disappointed to see the closure of a facility that many local people will rely on.

"With banks and free to use cash machines being removed at an alarming rate the Post Office is an invaluable resource to the local community.

"I hope that a new partner can be found to ensure that these services are not lost to Garthamlock and its residents and will be contacting the Post Office to see what help or alternatives we can secure for the area.”

Local MP, David Linden said: "This Post Office closure once again highlights the major problems with sustainability in the network and, ultimately, it is local people who suffer when service is withdrawn.

“Those living in the area are left to suffer the consequences and this closure will leave Garthamlock more isolated, particularly during a pandemic which has already left them feeling more removed from the wider community.

"Post Office Ltd struggles desperately to get sub-postmasters to take on branches and to keep them on.

"There are clearly problems with the business model which need addressed — something I have raised repeatedly with the UK Government, only to have been ignored.

"Westminster needs to start taking this problem seriously before local provision is completely decimated.

"These are vital services and the Government has a duty to put a halt to their erosion."

A spokeswoman for Post Office said: “The operator for Garthamlock has resigned, which will take effect on Saturday 13 February at 12 noon. The store, where the Post Office, is based is remaining open.

“We know how important a Post Office is to a community. We are currently investigating the options available to reinstate a Post Office service to the local community.

"The vacancy is currently advertised on www.runapostoffice.co.uk. In the interim alternative branches includes Cranhill and Ruchazie.”

The full addresses of alternative branches are:

  • Cranhill Post Office 12 Lamlash Crescent Glasgow G33 3LQ
  • Ruchazie Post Office 22 Avondale Street Glasgow G33 3QS

BEIS have been approached for comment.