DURHAM County Council is calling on the Post Office to rethink its plans to close seven branches that are considered unviable.
Councillors have condemned the proposals as reducing important community facilities and in some areas petitions have been raised.
The Post Office says the branches have been left struggling for business by the government's decision to pay benefits directly into bank accounts.
The branches facing closure are: Newgate Street, Bishop Auckland; Gilesgate Moor, Durham; Nevilles Cross, Durham; East Stanley; South Stanley; Blackhill, Consett; Neville Parade, Newton Aycliffe.
Deputy chief executive Andrew North has written to the Post Office, saying: "If customers are forced to move elsewhere to access Post Office services, there is a very real danger that their custom for other local businesses will move with them and other local amenities will be lost."
Consultation on the proposed closure ends today. So far 53 urban branches in the region have shut.
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