PLANS to move a village’s Post Office have been slammed by councillors amid claims it would cause problems for residents and cause traffic problems.

Councillors Brian Hogg and Doreen Rudland are opposed to the idea of moving the service away from the High Street and relocate it to a convenience store in the village's Park Estate.

However, as consultation on the proposal begins, the Post Office say moving the branch from its current location to Foster Street would open it to customers for almost 50 hours more per week.

The pair, who are Brotton ward members for Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, said: "We are deeply concerned about this proposed move - a move that has not been previously discussed with us. We have questions as to why a location so remote to the rest of Brotton has been proposed.

“If the present location - a location that has traded for many, many years - has suddenly become unviable, why have not the two main outlets in Brotton - the Spar Store at the top end of the High Street, or the Co-op which is opposite the existing Post Office - been approached, as we feel both would see it as a valuable opportunity for them to expand trade.

"We have fears too, for road safety. The Park Estate area is made up largely of narrow terraced streets, where local children play. The added traffic will be a risk, we feel and also increased car use will cause parking problems.”

Adrian Wales, Post Office regional manager said: “We understand how important having a Post Office is to residents and we are confident that this new modern service will meet the needs of the local community and secure services for the future.”

During the public consultation, Post Office Ltd is inviting feedback on the proposal until February 20, by email to comments@postoffice.co.uk, or by calling 08457-223344.