BASILDON’S new post office has been given the thumbs-up by MP John Baron.

The main branch in East Square shut its doors for good at the end of March, with services moving into WH Smith, in nearby Town Square.

The Post Office took the decision to enter into a franchise agreement following a six-week public consultation, despite staff strikes and numerous meetings with representatives from the Communication Workers Union. Customers are now benefiting from longer opening hours, including four hours of service every Sunday.

The branch has six serving positions, made up of three screened and three open-plan counters Mr Baron, Tory MP for Basildon and Billericay, who visited the post office on Friday, said: “Having previously used the service, I am extremely impressed with the team at Basildon post office.”