Responding to the news that Alexandra Parade Post Office on Colney Hatch Lane is to be upgraded to "a main style model" with longer opening hours, MP for Chipping Barnet, Theresa Villiers said:
“I campaigned hard against Labour’s programme of post office closures under the last Government. I therefore warmly welcome the investment and support for the Post Office which the Conservative led Coalition Government is providing.”
“This will enable around 6,000 branches to be updated, including Alexandra Parade, where the post office will open for longer hours as from Friday 19th April. The “main style model” to be introduced at Alexandra Parade aims to give users a brighter more modern experience with an extensive range of products and services.”
“It is encouraging that many of the branches that are already running on this basis have seen an increase in retail turnover of more than 8%. Reports show that costumers are using these new-look Post Offices with enthusiasm and I am glad that the Conservative-led government is working to keep local post office branches at the heart of our community”
The Government’s latest initiative to make the Post Office a stronger partner for Royal Mail also includes the relocation of East Barnet Post Office, saved from closure after local Conservative Ward Councillors, residents and Theresa Villiers campaigned to keep it. It will now undergo a similar programme of modernisation based on the local model and will be open seven days a week 0530 to 2000hrs Monday to Saturday and 0600 to 1600hrs on Sunday.
The Alexandra Parade branch will now be open 0900-1730hrs Monday to Saturday and will have three service counters. There will also be a hearing loop fitted internally.