As the festive season reaches its peak, Stockport's Member of Parliament has issued a heartfelt call to recognise the hard work of key workers and volunteers across the borough, while also raising pressing concerns about local services.
Gratitude and Concerns for Community Heroes
Navendu Mishra MP used his pre-Christmas column to pay tribute to Royal Mail staff and foodbank volunteers. He personally visited the Royal Mail delivery office on Green Lane earlier in December to thank workers during their busiest period and to hear their views on changes to the postal service.
He also singled out volunteers at foodbanks across Stockport, specifically praising Chelwood Plus in Adswood, which provides essentials like clothing and furniture, and Re:dish in Reddish. However, he revealed a significant worry: while donations are welcome now, volunteers fear stocks will be critically low in January, potentially leaving them unable to meet demand.
Post Office Relocation Sparks Frustration
The MP addressed one of the most common complaints from constituents: the performance of the newly established Post Office in Stockport town centre. Mishra stated he had received numerous reports about long queues and accessibility issues.
"I have stood in the Post Office queue myself for 25 minutes," he revealed, emphasising that this was despite assurances that service levels would not drop after the relocation from the old site. He was quick to clarify that the issue is not the fault of the hard-working staff, and confirmed he has written to the relevant Minister to urge the Government and Post Office to restore service standards promptly.
Parliamentary Work and Local Investment
Beyond constituency matters, Mishra shared news from Westminster. He was recently elected Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Cancer, a group supported by Macmillan Cancer Support.
He also participated in a debate on the Government's Railways Bill, discussing local issues including Reddish South Station, funding for British Transport Police, and poor accessibility at Stockport stations.
Looking to the future, the MP is now seeking widespread input on a major local investment. He is collecting views from the public on how £20 million for Brinnington, allocated through the Government's Pride in Place Programme, should be spent. Residents can share their ideas via an online form, or by contacting his town centre office directly.
A Festive Message and a Look Ahead
Concluding his update, Navendu Mishra wished everyone in Stockport a merry Christmas and a happy, healthy New Year. He expressed his anticipation to meet more residents, businesses, and charities in the coming year, reinforcing his commitment to the community he serves.
