'Shock' as Post Office at Rushmere Shopping Centre in Craigavon to close
Customers of the Post Office at Rushmere Shopping Centre in Craigavon are shocked that it is to close for good after almost 30 years.
For decades the Post Office has served the people of Craigavon as well as shoppers to the popular shopping centre.
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One resident expressed shock saying she used it regularly and it will be a big blow to her and her family.
Another shopper said the Post Office is used by a lot of elderly people who will be ‘less likely’ to go to the shopping centre.
It is understood 4 members of staff may be made redundant after the Post Office closes on March 24.
Last year it was feared the Post Office would close but there were reassurances that an alternative unit would be provided.
However this afternoon a Post Office 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 www.runapostoffice.co.uk
“We apologise for any inconvenience caused. Alternative branches in the area include Gilpinstown Road, Seagrove and Derrymacash.”
Sinn Féin Councillor Catherine Nelson has expressed ‘serious concern’ following the announcement of the closure of the Post Office at Rushmere Shopping Centre.
Cllr Nelson said: “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.
"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 with Royal Mail 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.” Cllr Nelson added that she will continue to engage with all stakeholders and provide updates to the community as soon as further information becomes available.
Rushmere Shopping Centre has been on a meteoric rise attracting major international businesses to the popular Co Armagh outlet.
Last year the centre recorded a whopping 10.5 million visitors, including 1.5 million in December alone, following a major investment.
A new £9m Lidl store is currently being built at the former Sainsbury’s service station site. Already the centre has Primark, Dunnes Stores, Waterstones, Mango, Søstrene Grene, Caffe Nero, SCHUH, Mountain Warehouse, RITUALS, Warren James and Miniso to name a few.