OLD Town Post Office has closed for a major refurbishment.

The well-used Victoria Road branch will be closed for two weeks while the builders move in.

It will reopen on April 28.

Post Office bosses say the new-look branch will boast a wider range of services and longer opening hours, with extended opening until 5.30pm on Saturdays.

Andrew Masson, Post Office area manager, said: “We are making it easier for customers to get their cash, send and collect their mail and do their banking because we know how important these services are to local residents.

“We are confident that this vibrant new-style post office which is at the heart of the local community will meet the needs of our customers.

“This modernisation is part of a major investment programme, the largest in the history of the Post Office and will secure services for the future.”

The refurbishment will see the installation of three serving counters, two of which will have security screens. A wider selection of foreign currency.

While the Victoria Road branch is closed, the nearest Post Office branches are at WH Smith in Regent Street and 58 Commercial Road.

Earlier this year, borough planners gave the go-ahead to plans to split the branch in two to create another shop or office space. 

An ATM cash machine will be re-sited from the right-hand-side of the red brick building to the left.

Developers said the works would not affect the building’s distinctive façade.

In February, parish councillors backed the developers’ plans.

Coun Steve Allsopp supports the improvements.

He said: “Given the façade is likely being protected and the post office is being protected by the fact there is a smaller post office and an additional unit, which I assume will help sustain the viability of the post office, I think it’s an application we should not jeopardise but fully support.”