A HALE Barns councillor is urging residents to have their say on the proposed re-opening of the village's Post Office.

The original Post Office closed in October 2013, following the commencement of a £30 million revamp of the Square shopping centre – which, when building work is complete, is to comprise a Booths supermarket and cafe, 10 shops, 24 flats and 200 car parking spaces.

Property company Development Securities' plans to regenerate the site were held up for two years because three businesses-owners – including the postmaster at the time – refused to move out.

But, following a public inquiry, Compulsory Planning Orders were granted in May 2013 and the future of Post Office provision in Hale Barns was cast into doubt.

However, Cllr Bernard Sharp wrote to the Post Office to ask if an alternative operator and site could be found and a solution now looks to be at hand.

The proprietor of the Best One convenience store, which is 50 metres from the original site, has applied to open a Post Office counter within the store, which will be open between 7.30am and 5.30pm.

Consultation on the proposal ends tomorrow, Friday, and Cllr Sharp is urging residents to show their support for the scheme.

He said: "I am aware that the community have been very anxious to retain the post office and its facilities, which has been well used.

"It follows that they're more than happy to have a Post Office even if it's in a different place."

Cllr Sharp added: "From my own research and talking to people in the ward, they seem to be very happy about this proposal.

"I would ask everybody to contact the Post Office if they haven't already done so to confirm their approval."

Simon Drinkwater, Post Office regional manager, said: “We understand how important having a Post Office is to residents in Altrincham and we are confident that this new modern Post Office service will meet the needs of the local community and secure services for the future."

- Consultation on the Hale Barns Post Office ends on August 22. Submissions can be made by Freepost 'YOUR COMMENTS' to Post Office Ltd, via email to comments@postoffice.co.uk, via the Customer Helpline on 08457 22 33 44 or Textphone 08457 22 33 55.