THE leader of the council has said the opening of the new Post Office next month is 'fantastic' news for the community.
After months of waiting, it has been confirmed that a new branch of the Post Office will open in The Malls at 1pm on Wednesday, October 1.
It comes after months of delays and anger from residents who were forced to seek alternative arrangements for their postal needs.
Now, the leader of Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, Cllr Paul Harvey, has praised the fact that work has begun, stating the new Post Office has been a "top priority" for his administration.
Work is well underway(Image: NQ)
He said: "The opening of the new Post Office branch in The Malls next month is fantastic news for our community.
"The Post Office provides important services for many. From paying bills and collecting pensions to sending and receiving parcels, we know how much this service means to our residents and it is part of their everyday life.
"This has been a top priority for us to complete the lease agreement with them. Working alongside the new franchisee, we are pleased we have been able to deliver a solution that brings this essential service back into the heart of our town centre."
A sign on the door reads: "Following the delayed opening of this Post Office, we are pleased to let you know that your new branch will open on Wednesday, October 1, at 1pm.
"We hope that you will enjoy using the new Post Office."
The new branch will provide the same 'wide range' of services as those offered in the former location, with one full-screened counter and two open-plan counters.
It will be run by an experienced Postmaster and will include a card, stationery and gift store.
Opening hours are expected to remain the same as before, from 9am to 5.30pm, Monday to Saturday.