Kilmarnock's only Post Office set to close at end of August

TG Jones intends to shut its King Street store, which currently hosts the town’s only Post Office branch.

Kilmarnock and Loudoun MP Lillian Jones has raised concerns over the move and urged the company to support its staff.

A temporary loss of Post Office services is now expected in the town, prompting fears about access to essential postal and banking services for residents and businesses.

Ms Jones said: "I am very saddened by the news that TG Jones is closing so many stores across the country, including the Kilmarnock branch.

"This is a deeply worrying time for the staff affected and their families.

"My thoughts are with every employee facing uncertainty as a result of this decision, and I am calling on TG Jones to support staff to the fullest extent possible throughout this process.

"The closure is particularly concerning because this branch currently hosts the only Post Office in Kilmarnock.

"Local people rely on these services every day for banking, bill payments, sending and collecting parcels, and accessing a range of essential services.

"Whilst I welcome the fact that there has already been interest from potential operators in taking on the franchise, my immediate priority is ensuring that local people do not lose access to vital Post Office services."

She has also called for interim arrangements to minimise disruption and ensure continued service until a new franchisee is in place.

Ms Jones said she would be meeting with Post Office management to discuss their plans and to ask how they intend to continue serving Kilmarnock until a new operator is found. She said: "I will also be pressing them to put appropriate interim arrangements in place so that there is no unnecessary disruption for residents, businesses and vulnerable customers who depend on these services.

"It is essential that any gap in provision is kept as short as possible, and I will continue to hold both the Post Office and TG Jones to account throughout this transition."

The Post Office has begun the search for a new retail partner in Kilmarnock, although there remains a risk of a temporary service gap due to the short notice of the closure.