Royal Mail makes pledge to reinstate Norton mail box

9:10am Tuesday 11th November 2008

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A VITAL postbox is set to be reinstated in Norton, after a local councillor won a battle with mail bosses.

The postbox at the former post office in Church Street, Norton was removed earlier in the year when the office closed.

Royal Mail said then there was no need to replace the box, as there were alternatives available nearby and the number of boxes in the area was well within the requirements of the postal licence.

As previously reported, particular hardship has been caused to 95-year-old William Bradshaw, a resident of Church Street for 30 years.

He now has to get a taxi to post his mail at the nearest alternative box, in Scarborough Road, or asks other people to do so on his behalf.

Howard Keal, the Liberal Democrat prospective parliamentary candidate for Malton and Thirsk, which includes Norton, appealed to Royal Mail to bring the postbox back in to use.

He said after two unsuccessful attempts, the company had finally confirmed it was looking at bringing a postbox back to the area.

“I was refused again and again, but I didn’t want to back down,” said Coun Keal.

“I wanted to show it is clearly unacceptable that 95-year-old Mr Bradshaw has been forced to make a taxi journey to post a letter.

“It is also an inconvenience for shoppers and businesses to the area.

“There was no logic to removing the opportunity for people to post a letter while visiting the main shopping area or using the car park.

“I am happy to say that in the latest exchange, Royal Mail has moved from its original hard-line stance and indicated that it will now be looking at reopening a postbox in Church Street.

“This news is a real red-letter day for both residents and businesses in the area.”

“I am hopeful Royal Mail will show it means what it said will take immediate steps to bring back our box.

“It is clearly a vital service for the local community and it was never going to be acceptable for it to be closed down,” said Coun Keal.

Andrew Coles, Royal Mail collections planning manager, confirmed a postbox would be brought back to the area.

He said: “We are exploring the possibility of relocating a box on Commercial Street.

“The box could move towards Church Street, subject to utility clearance.”