ALSTON Post Office could be on the move if customers give the relocation their stamp of approval.

The Post Office is proposing to move the counter service from its current premises on Front Street to the former Crown Hotel next door, which is currently empty and has better access for disabled people.

The relocation is expected to take place in February 2020, and the branch would be open seven days a week, from 9am to 5.30pm Monday to Saturday and 10.30am to 3pm on Sunday.

A public consultation is now under way and people have until November 22 to share their views.

Kenny Lamont, Post Office area change manager said: “We are making it easier for customers to get their cash, send and collect their mail and do their banking because we know how important these services are to local residents. We are confident that this vibrant new-style post office at the heart of the local community will meet customer needs.”

County councillor for Alston, Claire Driver, supported the relocation. “I feel very positive about the future of the post office in Alston, and the relocation can breath new life into the service,” she said.

“The owners have great plans for the building and it brings a local premises back to life again.”

Residents have raised concerns though about the potential relocation of the Royal Mail sorting office to Brampton, along with Alston Moor postal workers. Coun. Driver added: “Sadly this is fairly predictable. However I am confident the service will stay at Alston Post Office.”

A Royal Mail spokesman said: “Due to the proposed relocation of the post office in Alston, Royal Mail is currently in discussions with the Post Office and our people about how we can still accommodate our services, and our mail collection facilities in the community.”