Community rallies to save Artarmon PO
Willoughby residents have rallied against the closure of Artarmon Post Office, protesting outside the Hampden Road site on 11 January.
Sailors Bay Ward councillor Roy McCullagh organised the rally, joining 130 community members to fight the closure, along with Willoughby MP Tim James and Mayor Tanya Taylor, after a notice was displayed saying customers would have to use Lane Cove, Willoughby or Chatswood post offices from 12 March.
The post office will be replaced by an $8 million five-storey shop-top housing development on the site, with 18 apartments and basement parking.
Mr James said the closure was a ‘hammer blow for Hampden Road’ and was engaging with Australia Post in an effort to keep the shop open and investigate relocating locally.
“This post office provides essential postal and financial services that support businesses and the personal needs of the local community.
“I understand the shop is at the end of its lease, and the location is intended for a new development, but the solution is finding a new location within Artarmon shops.
“Alternate post shops are not within walking distance for many residents and have little or no parking in close proximity to the shop as is currently the case in Artarmon.”
Mayor Taylor said the decision to close the Artarmon shop was ‘highly troubling’ and that Australia Post had assured the community in December 2023 that no closure was planned.
“The Artarmon PO is a vital service for our community, and its closure will significantly impact residents, businesses, and vulnerable groups who rely on its services,” Mayor Taylor told North Shore Living.
“While I understand that Australia Post must balance commercial imperatives with community service obligations, the closure does not meet the expectations of our growing and diverse community,” she added.
Mayor Taylor said that the council was willing to collaborate with Australia Post to find an alternative location in Artarmon.
“I hope that given our efforts in highlighting the importance of this facility, Australia Post will make the right decision.”
The Artarmon Progress Association has urged the community to sign its petition to keep the post office open, located in several local shops.