I have a local constituent on a mission to improve services at Muswell Hill Post Office. The queues since the closure of our local sub post offices have lengthened and he wants them to do something about it. This is additional to all the campaigns and work we have all been doing on Post Office queues anyway.

So – we all met – my constituent, the branch manager, area manager and regional manager upstairs at Muswell Hill Post Office.

Have to say – dreadful building, complete rabbit warren, very poor behind the scenes spaces. In fact, we asked to look at the plans for this summer’s refurb (where I have been promised maximised seating – presently there is none for older or frail people in long queues). The new plans are better and show two seats (hardly a seat-fest – but given the limits of the space probably as much as can be squeezed in).

However, my view is that this is a cosmetic improvement – and it will be slightly better in that the queue will be inside and the space is marginally better organised – but they need more space! Now that they have shoved us into their Crown Offices – cosmetic uplifts aren’t enough. They should take over Woollies or find a decent space.

Anyway – on queuing the managers did seem to agree with us that they need to reorganise their staff to be there at the times when there is peak demand – and despite some challenges – they will strive towards this.

My constituent (who prefers to remain nameless) has agreed a reporting format to keep a watch on how the improvements to – so watch this space.