The main Post Office branch in Bath city centre is due to close on 1 September, with the prospect of a replacement location potentially not opening for up to six months.
Situated above the former WH Smith store on Stall Street, the Post Office will cease operations ahead of the closure of the TG Jones shop, formerly WH Smith, later this month. Both Bath MP Wera Hobhouse and Bath and North East Somerset Council have emphasised the vital role the Post Office plays for local residents and have called for a new branch to be established promptly.
The Post Office has acknowledged the importance of its services to the community and stated it is actively reviewing expressions of interest from retailers who might take on the role of hosting a branch. However, setting up a new Post Office typically takes around six months, especially if the retailer does not already hold postmaster accreditation or suitable premises.
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Kevin Guy, leader of Bath and North East Somerset Council, expressed the council’s commitment: “We have made it clear that we will offer any support available to help reopen a Post Office branch in Bath city centre. We will maintain close contact throughout their internal decision-making processes to facilitate the earliest possible return.”
MP Wera Hobhouse stated, “Post Office counter services are essential to daily life and serve as a lifeline for many people. I am fully committed to supporting the council to ensure continued provision for our city centre residents.”
The WH Smith store on Stall Street was rebranded as TG Jones in 2023 after the latter acquired the high street part of WH Smith’s business. However, TG Jones recently announced plans to close 150 shops nationwide, including the Bath location.
A Post Office spokesperson commented on the situation: “We fully recognise the difficult trading conditions faced by TG Jones and many other high street retailers. Following TG Jones' restructuring plan approval on 1 July, which involves renegotiating commercial terms with landlords, they have decided to close their Bath store. As a result, Bath Post Office will close on Tuesday 1 September.
“We understand how important our products and services are to the local community. We have already received expressions of interest from some retailers and are carefully evaluating them. Our aim is to open a replacement branch as soon as possible. In the meantime, alternative Post Office branches are available at Lower Weston and Battle Walk.”