Diss Post Office to be relocated to Mere Street shop

Diss Post Office, currently found in Market Place, will be moved to the former home of Octagon Craft Gallery and Coffee lounge at 35e Mere Street.

This follows the conclusion of a second public consultation after initial proposals to move the office to 5 Mere Street were deemed to be unsuitable. 

Members of Diss Town Council have accused the Post Office of carrying out a "tick-box exercise" without proper consideration of objections. 

The new premises, which are currently empty, will undergo a full refurbishment to incorporate the Diss Post Office and a card and stationery store - and will be located approximately 300 metres away from the former branch. 

The new premises at 35e Mere Street (Image: Google Maps)The current branch at Market Place, which first opened in 1953, is under a short-term contract which is due to end soon, necessitating the move into more permanent premises.

Concerns were raised by consultees about the impact of queues out of the building and limited parking for customers. 

Diss Town Council said: "It is strongly felt that options for the current location should be reviewed given it is such a focal point in the town.

"There is a view that the consultation was simply a tick-box exercise, and that the decision has already been made based purely on finances."

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However, the Post Office said these issues were too "general" and that it would be proceeding with its relocation of the branch. 

A spokesman said: "After careful consideration of the feedback received, we remain confident that the layout and location of the new branch will continue to meet customer needs and deliver an excellent service, whilst securing the long-term viability of Post Office services in the local community.

"We’re currently making the final arrangements for the move and further information will be provided in branch once the dates have been agreed."