“I am extremely concerned” – Eccles MP shares worries as local Post Office is at risk of closure

The Worsley and Eccles MP, Michael Wheeler has shared his concerns as the Eccles Post Office branch is at risk of closure. 

The branch on Church Street may have to close its doors, after the recent announcement from the Post Office.

The decision will see the closure of over 100 branches across the country, including two in Salford, that include both Eccles and the Salford Precinct.

The move could see all 115 branches transferred to retail partners or postmasters, or potentially closed.

However, following the decision by the Post Office, Worsley and Eccles MP, Michael Wheeler has shared his concerns for residents in his constituency.

As he said: “I am extremely concerned about reports that the Post Office’s strategic review could put our Crown Post Office in Eccles at risk.

“I listened carefully to Gareth Thomas MP, the Government minister with responsibility for the Post Office, as he gave a statement to Parliament today where he said that ‘no decisions to close any or all of the directly managed branches had been taken’ by the Post Office.”

Michael Wheeler MP continued to share his disappointment at the news, and has promised that he will do all he “can to protect this valuable local service.”

As he continued: “I know how important the Post Office is to many people in and around Eccles who rely on it, particularly as many other commercial bank branches have closed or are about to close.”

As he intends to follow this up with the Minister and the Post Office to hopefully keep the site open.

The local MP has also recognised that the closure of the branch will be significant to residents in the area, as many still use the facility for cash withdrawals.

And with the announcement of the closure of the local Halifax branch on Church Street in January 2025, it has caused concerns for the local Eccles community.

As one resident Christine Leach shared: “The Halifax closes in January where you supposed to do your banking when the PO closes?”

Another local, Ervis Zenelcanaj added: “This branch is always always busy. Why on earth would you close this?”