LOCHWINNOCH residents have welcomed a decision to postpone the closure of the village’s Post Office.

The shutters were due to come down at the Post Office within the Spar store, in Main Street, on Sunday, March 21.

That decision angered villagers, who faced travelling to Johnstone, Beith or Kilbirnie to collect or send parcels.

Now the Post Office has been given a stay of execution, much to the delight of protestors.

David Mellor, chair of Lochwinnoch Community Council, told The Gazette: “I understand that Spar and the Post Office are currently discussing what changes they can make to keep their services going in the store.

“We put a lot of effort into this campaign and would like to express our thanks to all the local people and councillors who protested against the closure.

“We’re not quite out of the woods yet but we are very pleased and hope a solution between Spar and the Post Office can be found.”

Councillor Derek Bibby, who represents Lochwinnoch, added: “The decision to put on hold the March closure of the Post Office service at the Spar store is good news and testimony to those residents in the community and on Lochwinnoch Community Council who made strong representations to both the Post Office and Spar stores, highlighting as they did the need for such a service and the impact on the village of it bring withdrawn.

“I note the plan for closure has been put on hold, rather than completely abandoned.

“I think further clarification is required on what the trial of new branch formats entails, as this would inform any further decision down the line. As such, there is a need to closely monitor developments and, if necessary, explore alternative options.”

CJ Lang, which runs the Spar, previously said there was no longer enough space in the shop for the Post Office.

A spokesperson for Spar Scotland said the company is now working with Post Office Limited to discuss options.

“While these conversations take place, the Post Office counter will stay open in the store to serve our customers,” added the spokesperson.

“We remain committed to the communities we serve and keeping as many stores open as we can to continue to provide goods locally to our shoppers.”