Proposals for a new fund to help
sub-postmasters and sub-postmistresses diversify and improve their
Post Offices have been unveiled.
The new fund will aim to provide an opportunity for
sub-postmasters and sub-postmistresses to strengthen their
businesses and make them sustainable in the long term for the
benefit of the communities they serve.
There will be a 12-week consultation on the proposals, which
will fulfil a One Wales commitment to reinstate and refocus the
Post Office Development Fund.
FUNDING
The scheme aims to help sub-postmasters diversify their
businesses by providing funding for areas such as:
- business and marketing advice
- advertising
- training
- some set-up costs for new services
The new fund could also pay for physical improvements to Post
Office premises which are not funded by Post Office Ltd.
The consultation asks for views on the types of improvements
that could be funded, e.g.
- creating better access to the building
- upgrading computer equipment
- improving security or providing better signs for the
outside of the building
CONSULTATION
Comments are also being sought on whether the fund should be
targeted at deprived and isolated communities.
Consideration will also be given to whether a grant would help
provide a distinct social purpose for the community for example
support for the last retailer in the village.
Given the wider remit of the new fund it may be renamed as the Post
Office Diversification Fund.
The Welsh Assembly Government continues to provide support to
post offices through the small business rate relief scheme.
The scheme introduced in April 07 substantially improved relief
for small post offices in all parts of Wales.
A very large number of Post Offices in rural and urban areas are
completely exempt from business rates. Initial figures show that
over 950 post offices received relief last year worth a total of
over £1.25m.
The consultation will end on 30th October 08. The new scheme
will open on 1st January 09.
For further information please visit the Welsh Assembly
Government website at:
http://new.wales.gov.uk/consultations/currentconsultation/housandcomm/podf/?lang=en