A post office that closed last month will not be reopening, officials have confirmed.

The Chapel Lane Post Office in Horwich first closed in September this year after the retirement of postmistress Christine Dunning.

It had become renowned as a much-valued community hub, particularly during the lockdown period in 2020, but will not be returning to service in the forseeable future.

Bolton West MP Phil Brickell said: “The Chapel Lane Post Office has closed and there are no plans at present to re-open.

“This is due to the resignation of the postmistress.

The Chapel Lane Post Office will not be reopeningThe Chapel Lane Post Office will not be reopening (Image: Google Maps)

“My best wishes to Christine who is stepping down and from the number of messages I have received, she is clearly much-loved and respected by all who she served there.

“I will be writing to the Post Office to ask for full details on their decision not to explore options to continue post office services at this site or extending services to another.”

Mr Brickell advised that other post offices can be found nearby in Horwich on Winter Hey Lane and on Chorley New Road near the Beehive Roundabout.

Its closure in September marked the end of what had long been a much valued community hub in Horwich.

In February 2020 the then Bolton West MP Chris Green visited with the then minister for small business Kelly Tolhurst to see the work it did for himself.

But the Post Office has confirmed that is has no plans to replace the closed down outlet.

A spokesperson said: “Chapel Lane Post Office closed on 16 September due to the retirement of the Postmistress.  

“We want to sincerely thank her for the loyal service that she has provided to this community in Horwich and we wish her all the best for her well-earned retirement.

“We apologise for any inconvenience caused by the closure of this branch.

“Alternative branches in the area include Chorley New Road, which is 1.34 miles away, and Winter Hey, which is 1.41 miles away.

“There is also a banking hub for Horwich at New Chapel Lane.

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“The Post Office has undertaken a comprehensive review of the network to ensure that it continues to meet evolving customer needs in a very challenging economic climate. 

“This review examined the network at a very detailed, local level, analysing customer demand and accessibility of Post Office products and services. 

“Consequently, it has informed our plans for the Network as we work to ensure that, our funding and resources are allocated to deliver maximum benefit for all customers.

“At this time, therefore, we are not looking to replace Chapel Lane Post Office.”