The public are being asked to have their say on plans to move Leyton Post Office as part of a controversial project.

The Post Office has launched a public consultation on proposals to move its branch in Lea Bridge Road around 240 metres down the street to the former Pound and Plaza store by November.

The shop would have four public counters and would also stock items such as stationery and refreshments.

The new store would be open from 9am to 5.30pm Monday to Saturday, with some Post Office services also available at its retail till from 8am to 6pm.

Roger Gale, Post Office sales and trade marketing director, said: “Our customers will be offered the same range of services, with more convenient and longer opening hours.

“We are making sure we take the right action to sustain services for years to come.

“We have to adapt so that we can maintain our presence on high streets and in the heart of communities, which we are determined to do.”

The proposed relocation is part of Post Office plans announced in January to close 37 Crown offices across the UK.

The company says a wide range of services will still be available at the new site, a claim which has been rejected by the Communication Workers Union (CMU).

The union, which represents front-line Post Office staff, has said the plans will see services cut and employees losing their jobs to less experienced workers.

The CMU is already protesting plans to move the post office in Walthamstow High Street to Foster’s Super Market in Hoe Street.

Steve Jones, CMU national executive, said: “This is absolutely horrendous news for the whole of east London– the most vulnerable people in society will suffer most as will local businesses.

“If these decisions are not reversed it could spell the death knell of the high street in many communities.

“This irresponsible action has to be stopped and stopped now, and before it is too late.”

  • Residents can have their say on plans to move Leyton post office until September 13. To take part or for more information, visit: postofficeviews.co.uk or call: 03457 223344.