THE news that a new post office branch will open in Paxcroft Mead next month has been welcomed by locals who say it will help meet the needs of the rising population.

After months of negotiations, the Post office will open a brand new, seven-day-a-week branch at Richardson’s Budgens, in Hackett Place, on Monday, August 7, from 1pm.

With hundreds of homes already being built in Trowbridge and the surrounding areas and with many more potentially on the way, residents and local councillors have welcomed this move as it will help equip the area for the future.

Paxcroft Mead resident Emma Holt said: “This will be a very popular move in the area and if more houses are built it can help cater to the needs of the rising population. It is great that it is open seven days a week and for long hours too – that will help a lot of people.”

Wiltshire Councillor Ernie Clark said: “It has been bubbling in the background for many years now but I am delighted that Budgens has taken this on.

“This is a win-win situation as the post office at Budgens will be open for a longer period of time than a usual post office outlet would be and people come to shop there too. With houses on the way in Leadgate and West Ashton Road, people may walk instead of using their cars, which can cut down on pollution.”

Mark Richardson, owner of the Budgens store, said: “Customers that are aware of this are very happy about it. It saves people having to travel, especially the elderly, a mile or so down the road to Hilperton, Staverton or Trowbridge. With more houses, people need these facilities. All the services people will need will be there, courtesy of our staff. We have 80 parking spaces too.”