Ernie Clark. Hilperton Division, Wiltshire Council.

A 'change of use' planning application has been made.
This application is not un-expected as the old PO Store was not sold as a going concern.

With regard to trying to retain a post office service in this part of the village the situation is very much un-changed. The major stumbling block is that the Post Office insist that any replacement counter service has to be classed as 'urban' and open for at least five and an half days a week.

This is, of course, total rubbish, but is a convenient way for the Post Office to ensure that a replacement service will not be forthcoming.

Efforts are still being made via every channel available to get a 'rural' rating for this area (which would then allow part time opening) but there is no statutory duty on the Post Office to re-examine their flawed decision.

The Parish Council has been trying to get the Post Office to see sense on this matter for about three years, and, to be blunt, the chances of them changing the status to allow a part time office to open are very, very slim.