CONVERTING Pilley’s former post office back to a home has been approved despite calls from parish councillors to delay the scheme until the new community shop is on its feet. The old Pilley Stores has closedThe subsequent application for the old post office was discussed at a meeting of the national park authority’s planning committee, with members voting unanimously in favour. Boldre Parish Council had objected, however, saying it should be delayed while the community shop gets established. The new Pilley community shop“I don’t think waiting to see if another shop succeeds or otherwise is going to make any difference. Planning committee chair Gordon Bailey said many post offices across the New Forest and in local parishes had closed down and been returned to residential accommodation.

Source: The Times September 30, 2022 15:42 UTC