BUSINESS leaders and politicians are upset over plans to close Denbigh Post Office.

Under current plans the branch will be transferred to a private retailer in October this year. The Post Office have opened a consultation which will run to July 5.

Denbigh mayor, Cllr Roy Tickle, said: “We have got to retain the post office in Denbigh – it is needed as a main post office.

”I don’t see why it needs changing – I hope people come forward and air their views on what they think should happen. It’s no good sitting back and saying nothing and then complaining afterwards.”

Ann Jones, AM for the Vale of Clwyd, has expressed concerns over the form of the consultation, saying: “Although the Post Office refer to this process as a consultation, the decision to change the way the branch operates has already been made. I do worry after the experience of Rhyl Crown Post Office closing were there was a downgrade in services and a much reduced customer offer.

“I have written to the Post Office expressing my concern and have pointed out that if there is a groundswell of opinion to retain the Crown Post Office the Post Office should reconsider their plans. I would urge as many people as possible to engage with the consultation.”

Rich M Brady, vice chair of Denbigh Business Group, said: "It's surprising news. Myself and Lyndsey, our chair, didn't know anything about it until today.

“I knew of a consultation process that had been taking place, but we'd hoped following the closing of the town's Natwest branch, that a re-assessment would take place. Business owners, who bank with Natwest have been using the post office as an alternative, rather than waiting for the weekly mobile bank to visit. I'm keen to know what services will continue after the change.

“We're also concerned about the potential impact on other, existing businesses in Denbigh. What will the new retail premises stock? Who will they be competing with? Until we have more information, it's difficult to gauge what the fall out will be.

“I would just like to say to any business in Denbigh at the moment that the group is here to help you. If you have any concerns or worries, please come and talk to us.”

The details of the consultation and proposals can be found at postofficeviews.co.uk.