A VILLAGE post office could be moved to a new location where it will open longer.

The Post Office is proposing to move Ouston Post Office, at Ouston, near Chester-le-Street , a short distance from its current site to Ouston Service Station, Outston Lane.

The new open plan branch would be open from 7am to 9pm every day, an extra 57.5 hours on present arrangements.

Access would be improved as the new location has a ramp and wide door whereas the current premises have steps.

The move is part of major modernisation programme across the Post Office network designed to make it easier for customers.

Post Office Regional Network Manager for Scotland and North of England, Sue Richardson, said: “We understand how important having a Post Office is to residents in Ouston and we are confident that this new modern branch will meet the needs of the local community and secure services for the future.

“The proposed changes to the branch are part of a three-year investment programme, the largest in the history of the Post Office, that will see around 6000 branches (about half the Post Office network) converting to new-style branches. The investment marks a commitment to no more branch closure programmes.”

The Post Office is inviting customers to give their comments on the move in a six week public consultation before a final decision is taken on the proposal. The consultation will close on May 22. Submissions can be made by Freepost YOUR COMMENTS to Post Office Ltd, via e-mail to comments@postoffice.co.uk, via the Customer Helpline: 08457 22 33 44 or Textphone 08457 22 33 55.