Balham Post Office has officially reopened in a new, larger site.

The branch has moved next door to the premises of a former pub in order to offer more facilities.

Lucy Mowatt, councillor for Balham, performed the official opening on Friday, April 9 at 90 Balham High Road.

Balham Post Office official opening

Balham Post Office official opening

Cllr Paul Ellis and Cllr Clare Salier, fellow ward councillors, were also in attendance.

Mr Zaky Hasan, who had been Manager at Balham Post Office since 2015 has become the branch’s Postmaster and the existing staff have also remained.

At the relocated Balham Post Office there are three serving positions - one screened counter and two open plan counters. The shop also sells cards and stationery.

Cllr Lucy Mowatt said: “We are really pleased that these larger premises have been put to good use keeping a Post Office at the heart of the community. The new site looks great – very light, modern and spacious. We are delighted that Zaky Hasan and his staff, who are all very experienced, will continue to serve the residents and businesses of Balham.”

Balham Post Office official opening

Balham Post Office official opening

Postmaster Zaky Hasan said: “Customers are really pleased with the fully refurbished premises, which are more spacious and modern. Due to social distancing requirements the queue often went outside the premises, but now there is a lot more space for people to wait in the warm and the dry until they are served.

“As I have worked at Balham for six years, I know the area really well. I know what works for the community, so I saw the real potential in this new location, including serving food. This is an affluent area. The people are really nice. They enjoy eating out, including breakfast.”

Zaky is currently applying for permission to serve breakfast and buffets for takeaway and for enjoying in the former pub garden.

Balham Post Office is open 9am – 6pm, Monday – Friday and 9am – 3pm on a Saturday. On Sundays it is closed.