HOPES have been raised that a vital post office in Swindon could be brought back into use.

The branch inside the Asda superstore closed in January of this year following the retirement of the postmaster there.

Later that month South Swindon MP Sir Robert Buckland negotiated with Asda and Post Office for the site to be used as a temporary post office until a permanent solution had been found.

But the site is yet to reopen - temporarily or permanently. 

Read: MP negotiates temporary Post Office at old Asda West Swindon site

In Facebook update this week, Sir Robert announced he and councillor Suresh Gattapur were still in contact with both Post Office and Asda to try to find a way forward.

He then shared the most recent update he had received, revealing a potential applicant had come forward. 

It read: “Post Office apologises to customers for the temporary closure of West Swindon Centre Post Office in January following the resignation of the postmaster:

“Post Office appreciates that communities value having convenient access to their services and have been working with a potential applicant to explore how a Post Office can be restored to the West Swindon Centre.

“When there is a confirmed proposal to reopen the Post Office, they will provide a further update on the Post Office Consultation Hub. West Swindon Centre SN5 7DL - 247548 - Post Office - Citizen Space (postofficeviews.co.uk).

“In the meantime, customers can visit any branch for Post Office services and there are three alternative branches within a mile at Toothill, Freshbrook and the Shaw Village Centre.”

News of the closure first broke in November and it was called “a disaster” by people in the area, who spoke of its importance to the community - particularly for older residents

Read: West Swindon Post Office closure labelled a 'disaster'

The former justice secretary went on to reiterate he would continue to offer his support to all parties to ensure that the 'vital service' could return to the community. 

Sir Robert wrote: "Following this update, I have been in touch with the Post Office to offer my support on their work with the potential applicant on behalf of local residents.

"I will continue to remain in close contact with all parties and continue to push for the reopening."