“Following correspondence I have received regarding the Royal Mail operations in Great Wakering, I wanted to update residents on the latest developments.
“I was originally advised both in writing and during a meeting with Moya Greene, Chief Executive of Royal Mail, that all undeliverable items would be held at the Post Office in Great Wakering.
“However, I was disappointed to be notified by the Sub-Postmaster and by local residents that this was not actually the case in practice and that any items requiring a signature or requiring payment would be returned to the Short Street enquiry office in Southend. I immediately contacted Royal Mail and have managed to arrange that from Wednesday 1st May all undeliverable items needing a signature or not, will be available for collection from Great Wakering Post Office.
“I was glad to receive the confirmation of this, but still have concerns regarding any items requiring a surcharge or custom charge, which will still be held Short Street in Southend-on-Sea. I have been advised that customers have options to pay online or pay by sticking stamps on the card Royal Mail leave and posting it back if they cannot or do not want to travel to Southend. I understand that re-delivery can then be arranged free of charge.
“If customers do choose to pay the charge and collect the item in person, Southend-on-Sea enquiry office is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 6.30am – 6.30pm, Wednesday 6.30am – 8pm and Saturday 6.30am – 2 pm.
“I hope this clarifies the situation thus far and I will make further representations to Royal Mail to try and provide local collection for items that require payment.”