'We apologise for any inconvenience caused': Vital Northern Ireland shopping centre Post Office to close after nearly 30 years
Rushmere Post Office closure ‘a significant shock’ as local councillor seeks urgent meeting
The Post Office has confirmed that its branch at Rushmere Shopping Centre in Craigavon is to close, bringing to an end almost three decades of service at the site.
For years, the Centre Post Office has been a vital hub for residents and shoppers alike, providing essential postal services and support to the people of Craigavon.
It is understood four members of staff may be made redundant after the branch closes on March 24.
In a statement, a spokesperson said: “Centre Post Office at 29 Rushmere Shopping Centre is closing on 24 March. We want to thank the long-serving postmaster for providing this branch for the past 28 years.
"We recognise that there remains a need for a Post Office in the area and the vacancy will soon be re-advertised on http://www.runapostoffice.co.uk/ "We apologise for any inconvenience caused. Alternative branches in the area include Gilpinstown Road, Seagrove and Derrymacash."
The planned closure of the Post Office at Rushmere Shopping Centre in Craigavon has come as a “significant shock” to the local community and staff – and councillor Catherine Nelson has requested an urgent meeting.
“This news has come as a significant shock to the local community and to the dedicated staff who have provided an essential public service for many years,” she stated.
“I have been in contact with management at Rushmere Centre, who have indicated that they are keen to see this vital service retained and are open to working constructively to secure its future.
“This Post Office is not just a retail outlet – it is a lifeline, particularly for elderly residents, people who rely on in-person services for pensions and bill payments, and those who may not have access to online alternatives.
“I have made direct contact seeking an urgent meeting to discuss the rationale behind this decision and to explore all possible options to retain the service locally.
“At this time, I also want to offer reassurance to the hardworking staff affected by this announcement. You are valued members of our community and I will do everything in my power to advocate for the retention of this service and to protect local jobs.”