Post Office addresses closure in Simmondley 

Residents in Simmondley have expressed shock and concern after the sudden closure of Simmondley News.

A notice placed in the shop window on Tuesday 19th May, confirmed the business had gone into liquidation. The store also housed the local Post Office, raising fears about the impact the closure could have on access to essential services in the village. 

Alongside local councillors Stewart Gardner and Damien Greenhalgh, High Peak MP Jon Pearce wrote to the Post Office seeking urgent answers about what steps were being taken to restore services in the area.  

The Post Office responded saying: "We recognise how important Post Office services are to the communities they serve, and we sincerely apologise for the concern and inconvenience caused by the sudden closure. Reopening the branch is a priority for us, and we are working as quickly as possible, exploring all available options to restore services." 

Mr Pearce said: “Residents in Simmondley were understandably shocked by the sudden closure of the Post Office and the way the news was announced. For many people, especially older residents and those without easy access to transport, local Post Office services are incredibly important.  

“After hearing concerns from local residents and councillors, I contacted the Post Office directly to press for answers and make clear how important it is that services are restored as quickly as possible.  

“I’m pleased the Post Office has confirmed that reopening the branch is a priority, but I will continue pushing for updates and keeping pressure on until residents get the service they deserve.”  

Mr Pearce also said he was aware of wider concerns about Post Office services across the High Peak following the recent closure of Gamesley Post Office and reports that Whaley Bridge Post Office could also close this weekend. He said: 

“I know people across the High Peak are worried about the future of local Post Offices. While the situations in Gamesley and Whaley Bridge are separate to Simmondley, I completely understand why residents are concerned.  

“I am in contact with Ministers and the Post Office and doing everything I can to help protect these vital local services in Simmondley, Gamesley, Whaley Bridge and communities across the High Peak.”