PLANS for a new post office in Belsize Park have finally been agreed after nearly a year of wrangling.
Shopkeeper Minesh Patel, who runs Actionmate newsagents in Haverstock Hill, opposite Belsize Park Tube station, offered to run a post office from his store last summer.
But Post Office bosses refused permission because they needed three counters and the shop could only fit in two.
But after pressure from residents and Hampstead and Highgate Labour MP Glenda Jackson, the Post Office has backed down. It says a customer survey showed the new post office could meet demand with just two counters.
Mr Patel said: “It is a shame that it has taken them so long. Every day I have to turn away at least 15 people looking for a post office in Haverstock Hill.”
The area has been without a post office since the closure of a branch in the same street last year.
The new branch is due to open in the next three months, although Mr Patel and the Post Office have yet to finalise the deal.
A Post Office spokeswoman said: “The customer data show a declining number of people using the post office following recent changes, which has led us to conclude that two counters are now sufficient.”
Welcoming the decision, Ms Jackson said: “I am delighted that the tireless campaigning of my constituents seems to be bearing fruit and they will finally get their local office back.”
Mary Shenai, of Belsize Residents’ Association, said: “Haverstock Hill is a busy shopping street that deserves a bigger, dedicated post office.”