MP backs Post Office decision to relocate East Finchley branch with UOE

As reported by The Times Series Newspaper

The MP for Finchley and Golders Green has welcomed the Post Office’s decision to go ahead with plans to relocate its East Finchley branch.

Mike Freer thinks customers will benefit from the plans which will see East Finchley Post Office move from its current site in Viceroy Parade when it is franchised to Universal Office Equipment (UOE) Ltd in High Road on May 22.

Mr Freer said “The move to the UOE Store is excellent news for Post Office customers in East Finchley. The same facilities will be available in a new modern branch open seven days a week. “The consultation process was thorough, and residents’ views have been listened to and acted upon.”

But not everyone is happy with the decision – more than 2,350 people signed petitions against the plans. Many raised concern about access to the new Post Office which will be up three steps, with a handrail and a platform lift inside the UOE store. But UOE managing director Elliot Jacobs says his stationery company, which has been in the area for more than 30 years, has gone “above and beyond” to make sure this will not be a problem.

Speaking to the Times Series he said: “I’m looking forward to welcoming people on May 22 and showing them they have got nothing to be concerned about. We have gone above and beyond to make sure everyone gets the access they need.

“We are totally committed to supporting everyone’s access to the important services that both UOE and the Post Office provide. “We’re delighted and excited to be keeping an important service in the high street for everyone.”