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-------------------------------------------Kezia Dugdale Member of Scottish Parliament The Scottish Parliament EDINBURGH EH991SP 8 November 2011 Gear Ms Dugdale for Lothian

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Gilmerton Post OfficeQ!) 17 Ravenscroft Street, Gilmerton. Edinburgh. EH17 8QJ Decision - Branch Relocation

I'm writing to confirm that we will be proceeding with the relocation of the above service to the Premier Supermarket. 13 Drum Street. Gilmerton, Edinburgh, EH17 800. I have received a number of comments, from customers and local representatives during the consultation period. The main feedback centered on the possible impact on elderly or disabled customers. and that the new premises would not be large enough. or accessible enough, to accommodate a Post Office branch. Respondents also raised concerns that car parking would not be as good as it is at the current branch. I am very aware of the importance a Post Office branch has in local communities, particularly to our elderly and disabled customers. I also acknowledge that any such change may cause inconvenience to some, however. in the long term the relocation of the branch to the larger store will safeguard Post Office services to the local community. Our planning team have worked with our agent to ensure that the new branch has been planned to meet the needs of all customers. with manoeuvrability and privacy within the branch a priority. A portable ramp will be available for ease of access and our agent has plans to install both a wireless bell and signage at the entrance of the branch. As part of our planning prior to consultation a survey of the area was conducted and I understand there is a car park within 100 yards of the premises and roadside parking is available within 50 yards. I have carefully considered my original proposal and the feedback received during the formal period of public consultation. I am confident that the new service is suitably located and will meet the needs of our customers in the local community. This move will secure Post Office services to the local community in the longer term.

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Post Office Ltd is registered in England and Wales. Registered No. 2154540. Registered Office 148 Old Street, London. EC1v 9HQ. Post Office and the Post Office logo are registered trade marks of Post Office Ltd.

The date the current branch will move to the new location is currently being finalised and will be confirmed soon. Full details of the new service. including the range of facilities. opening hours. transport. route and access. are provided at the end of this letter. This change to the Post Office network is being carried out in accordance with the Code of Practice for changes to the network. as agreed with Consumer Focus. the national consumer organisation. A full copy of the Code of Practice is available on our website at www.postoffice.co.uk/networkchange. and selecting Network changes. or by contacting us at the address provided at the end of this letter. Thank you for considering our proposal. support your local Post Office branch. Yours sincerely We hope that you and our customers will continue to

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-Brian Turnbull Field Change Advisor How to contact us: National Consultation Team Post Office Limited PO Box 1138 ST. ALBANS AL19UN
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For further information contact: Customer Helpline: 08457 22 33 44 Textphone: 08457 22 33 55 www.postoffice.co.uk

consultation@postoffice.co.uk

Post Office limited can provide information and receive comments (where appropriate) in alternative formats, for example, to assist the visually impaired. To obtain further specific information. please contact the customer helpline on 08457 22 33 44 or textphone 08457 22 33 55.
Details of the new service: Gilmerton branch Premier Supermarket 13 Drum Street Gilmerton Edinburgh EH17800 ~ Services The same range of services will continue to be available. with the addition of On Line Lottery. Customers can still collect benefits in cash using our everyday banking services or Post Office card account. ~ Access and facilities The premises have a portable ramp and there are plans to install a bell and a signage at the entrance. Internally. there will be a low-level serving counter. a low-level writing desk and space for a wheelchair. Parking There is a car park within 100 yards to the rear of the premises and roadside parking is available within 50 yards. Route These premises are located approximately 300 yards away from the current service. along varied terrain.

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