I have expressed the hope that a new sub-postmaster will come forward to take over the Blackness Road Post Office as, thus far, Post Office Limited has indicated there has been no formal interest in taking over the post office. This follows the announcement in May that the current sub-postmaster, Mr Abdul Bhimani, has indicated a wish to retire.
Post Office Limited has indicated to me :
“I have been advised that the Blackness Road branch is currently being advertised as a Post Office Local. This is because the existing Sub-postmaster has indicated that he wishes to leave the business under our Network Transformation Programme. The Sub-postmaster has not resigned and will remain in post until the position is filled. I can also confirm that to date there has currently not been any interest shown in this position. Unfortunately, I am not in a position to confirm if the service will remain in the Blackness Road premises if changes were to be made.”
I understand that one local property developer had given some thought to taking over the service, possibly from a new location in the area. I am extremely anxious that a new sub-postmaster is found to ensure that there is still a Blackness Post Office after Mr Bhimani retires. This is a very well-used post office and an important facility in the Blackness area.