An approved proposal has seen Loughton’s post office hours doubled.

The Broadway Post Office merged with convenience store, McColl’s, on Friday (July 24) following a six week public consultation period.

The branch proposed the move in February after learning that the office could close at short notice due to the lack of a permanent operator.

The merger has seen the service, which formerly opened until 5.30pm on weekdays, 12.30pm on Saturday’s and was closed on Sundays, open for a further 78 hours a week.

The post office, which saw McColl’s undergo a modern makeover to incorporate it, is now open until 11pm on weekdays and Saturday’s and 10.30pm on Sunday’s.

Residents will now be able to access extensive services including car tax renewals, sending funds abroad, converting money and paying bills.

Chief Operating Officer for McColl’s Retail Group, Dave Thomas, said: “We are delighted to be welcoming customers to our newly refurbished The Broadway Post Office.

“It now offers a wide range of Post Office services alongside our extensive retail offer.

“As a convenience store operator we are always looking for ways to make life easier for our customers.

“The additional Post Office services will be available for the full opening hours of the store in order to provide an excellent service for the local community.”