MORAY PARLIAMENTARIANS’ CONCERN OVER LOSSIEMOUTH DELIVERY OFFICE CLOSURE PLANS

Angus Robertson MP has written to the Chief Executive of the Royal Mail, to raise his deep concerns following the announcement that Royal Mail are to close the Lossiemouth Delivery Office. The closure will see duties transferred to Elgin in the coming months, and has moved constituents to contact their MP and to campaign against the decision.

Angus Robertson has sent an urgent letter to the Royal Mail boss highlighting concerns within the loss of this service to the town. Residents in Lossiemouth have expressed their dismay at such a sizeable population losing this service, forcing them to make a 12 mile round trip to collect undelivered mail.

Mr Robertson said:

“The announcement of the Lossiemouth Delivery Office closure has come as a huge blow to the

local community. I am very much aware of the strength of feeling within Lossiemouth at the loss of this service in the town, especially after the closure of the local RBS branch last year.

“I commend those who have taken initiative by petitioning Royal Mail and I have taken steps to ensure that Royal Mail bosses are aware of the community’s anger at these plans and what it will mean for local residents.

“A 12 mile round trip to collect parcels is quite an undertaking particularly for the most vulnerable in our community who may not be able to afford the associated costs, or who may not be fit to make the trip. I have urged Royal Mail to give serious consideration to the important service issue raised by the community.”

Richard Lochhead MSP who has also been contacted by concerned constituents said:

“The local community has expressed significant concern about the closure of the delivery office

which would leave the town without a collection point for parcels. This is understandable when you consider that many people do not have a car and, of course, there are those who aren’t physically able to make a trip to Elgin by public transport to collect a parcel, not to mention the extra costs involved.

“I am encouraged to hear that many folk in the community have raised their objections by way of a petition which I understand has gained a substantial number of signatures; well over 400 last time I checked.”