Plans have been announced to relocate Smalley Post Office to a nearby convenience store on Main Road, a move that would see Post Office services maintained in the village while significantly increasing opening hours.
Post Office is proposing to move the branch from its current location at 35 Main Road, Smalley, DE7 6EF to Premier, 34 Main Road, Smalley, DE7 6EE, around 250 metres away.
The proposal follows the resignation of the current postmaster. A new operator has been appointed and has identified the Premier store as an alternative location to ensure Post Office services continue to be available locally.
Much longer opening hours proposed
If approved, the new branch would be open seven days a week from 8am to 9pm.
This would provide 91 hours of Post Office service per week, compared with the current 20 hours per week, when the branch is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 1pm and closed at weekends.
The change would result in an additional 71 hours of service each week, including weekend opening, earlier starts and much later closing times.
How the new branch would operate
Under the proposal, customers would access Post Office services from an open-plan counter within the Premier convenience store, operating alongside the shop’s retail business.
There would be one open-plan serving position, with staffing levels based on current and predicted demand.
Accessibility and location
At present, there is a step at the entrance to the proposed new premises. To address this, a portable ramp would be provided, along with a bell and signage to assist customers.
Inside the store, there would be:
- An internal ramp with handrail
- A hearing loop
- Space to accommodate wheelchair users
The proposed location is approximately 250 metres from the current Post Office, along mostly level terrain. Parking would be available to the side of the store for one vehicle, with additional roadside parking nearby. Public transport links serve the area.
Services available
Everyday personal and business banking services would continue, including:
- Cash withdrawals
- Cash deposits
- Cheque deposits
- Mail services and Drop & Go
Some services would change under the proposal. The new branch would offer:
- Parcelforce Express services
- Bill payments and top-ups
- Travel Money Cards
Parcelforce Express 48 Large would no longer be available at the proposed branch.
Any services not available at the new location would continue to be available at Kilburn Post Office, which is open Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 6.30pm and on Saturdays from 8.30am to 2pm.
Public consultation now open
Residents and customers are invited to share their views on the proposal. The consultation will close on 24 March 2026.
Feedback can be submitted:
- Online at postofficeviews.co.uk using branch code 290207
- By email to comments@postoffice.co.uk
- By post to Freepost YOUR COMMENTS
- By phone on 03452 66 01 15
- By Textphone on 03457 22 33 55
Ilkeston News will continue to follow the consultation and report on any final decision.