A PETITION has been launched in a bid to stop the closure of a vital community Post Office.

Drumchapel’s Hecla Square venue has been earmarked for closure by the Post Office as part of the company’s plans to shut a number of their own branches across the UK.

Glasgow MP Carol Monaghan has launched a campaign to stop the plans and set up an online petition against them earlier this week.

More than 100 people have pledged their support for the online campaign, which states: “This Post Office provides a vital service for many local residents, the loss of which would have a detrimental impact on the wider community in Drumchapel as well as causing concern for staff.”

As reported by the Evening Times locals were concerned about the proposals when they were announced last month.

Some people said the closure would have an impact on disabled people who may find it hard to get to the nearest post office in Clydebank.

It is thought the venue may be offered out as a franchise, meaning it would stay open but would not be run by the Post Office company itself.

Carol Monaghan is due to visit the site on Friday to speak to locals about their concerns over the closure.

She said: “I have launched this petition so that local residents and the wider community in Drumchapel can have their say about the plans to close or franchise the Post Office on Hecla Avenue.

“The petition calls upon the Post Office to halt any plans to close the office and ensure that these services and jobs can be maintained and protected in the local area.

“The responses received so far have been encouraging, and confirm just how important this Post Office is and how vital its services are to so many local residents.

“Visiting the Post Office, it is noticeable just how busy the counters are, and how strongly the community feels about the proposals to close this important facility.

“The community do not want these services endangered, and I would urge anyone who agrees to sign the petition.”

Some of those who have signed the petition already say the venue is vital for the community.

Karen Mack, form Glasgow, wrote: “It is our main local post office I use it regularly and don’t feel I should have to travel outwith my area to use a post office.

“I can travel but the vast majority of its users are elderly and are not able to.”

Roger Gale, Marketing Director at the post office said: “We will take time to identify the right partners over the coming months and all proposals will be subject to local consultation.

“Post Office has a strong record of supporting people through change and we will be keeping affected staff fully informed as we develop our plans.”