Norwich: Post Office branch in Queens Road, Lakenham closes

Lakenham Post Office moved inside the Spice Express Norwich shop in Queens Road after the original venue, located along the same road, closed in 2014.

However, the branch closed permanently on April 28 “following the resignation of the postmaster” according to a poster in the shop door.

The note in the shop window says the Post Office is closed following the resignation of the postmaster (Image: Newsquest)

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The loss has been a major blow to both businesses and people living nearby.

Rachel Bond lives in Lakenham and regularly used the Post Office.

The 61-year-old said: "I was shocked when I saw the sign on the door saying it had closed.

Rachel Bond, who lives in the area said the closure seemed to happen overnight (Image: Rachel Bond)

"It seemed to be a popular facility used by the community but it seems like it just closed overnight.

"Lots of older people in the area used it so I think also the loss deprives them of a certain amount of independence and urgency."

The Post Office moved into Spice Express Norwich shop after the original Post Office (pictured) just down the road, closed in 2014 (Image: Google Maps)

Alfie Guerreiro is the co-owner of Luso Brazilian Taste cafe and restaurant, which is next to Spice Express Norwich.

Mr Guerreiro added: "It’s the closest Post Office for the majority of the community, so this is really bad for the area.

Alfie Guerreiro, co-owner of Luso Brazilian Taste café and restaurant, located next to where the former Post Office was based (Image: Newsquest)

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"People still come in and see if we know where the Post Office has gone, or if it's moved to another nearby location.

"It’s so inconvenient for older people who'll now have to walk further for their needs."

The notice on the door provides alternative Post Office branches, at WH Smith in St Stephens Street and Prince of Wales Road, between 0.5 and 0.8 miles away respectively.

The Post Office was located in Queens Road, inside convenience shop, Spice Express Norwich (Image: Newsquest)

Mike Lee lives opposite Spice Express Norwich and said: "I used to use the Post Office often - it was incredibly convenient.

"I think it’s a major loss to the community and a big blow for the area."

Mike Lee, who lives opposite where the Post Office was based said the closure is a major loss to the community (Image: Newsquest)