Call for urgent refurbishment of historic old Post Office building

ROYAL Mail has confirmed it will undertake a review of the condition of the old Post Office building in Strabane town centre, with a view to improving its condition.

It follows a call from West Tyrone SDLP MLA., Daniel McCrossan, for immediate refurbishment works.

He said the exterior of the landmark Castle Street building, which serves as the Royal Mail Delivery Office, in its current state is “a disgrace and a disservice” to the local community.

The Grade B2 listed building built in 1920, which holds significant historical importance, has been allowed to deteriorate over many years despite repeated appeals for action, he added.

He has written to Royal Mail management on the issue with his latest missive highlighting the nature of the works needed to protect the historic facade.

This includes; removal of dated shutters creating a derelict appearance, restoration of original sash windows, cleaning and repair of dirty brickwork, full restoration of the historic door surround, repainting of faded and peeling surfaces and repair of defective guttering.

The lack of maintenance work has turned the prominent building into a "visible eyesore", the local MLA claimed, which is "damaging the image of this entire area."

Expressing his "deep concern and frustration at the appalling condition" of the building, his letter stated: "This building is not only a prominent landmark, but also of significant historical importance to our town.

"Its continued neglect by Royal Mail is unacceptable and has rightly caused anger among local residents."

Within the letter, Mr McCrossan included a series of photographs highlighting the deteriorating state of the prominent building.

He added: "Please treat this building with the respect it deserves.

"Despite repeated representations over a considerable period, no meaningful action has been taken.

"The building has now deteriorated further, becoming a visible eyesore in the heart of our community."

The letter has also been copied to the chief executive of Derry and Strabane District Council, Strabane BID, Strabane Chamber of Commerce and the Department for Communities (DfC) Built Heritage Division.

Speaking to the Strabane Weekly News, Mr McCrossan explained: "Royal Mail has a clear legal responsibility to maintain this building, prevent damage and preserve its historic character.

“Small business owners in Strabane maintain their premises to a high standard.

"There is no excuse for Royal Mail, a national institution, to allow such a prominent site to fall into this state of disrepair.”

He warned that unless immediate action is taken, he will support and initiate a public petition for Royal Mail to take steps to refurbish and clean the building.

“This is not just about the fabric of a building - it is about respect for our heritage and pride in our town,” he added.

"Royal Mail must treat this site with the dignity it deserves.

"Anything less fails both the people of Strabane and the staff who work there.”

Royal Mail were approached for comment and a response to Mr McCrossan.

Yesterday (Tuesday), a spokesperson said: “We are undertaking a review of the condition of Strabane Delivery Office to assess how it can be improved and, as it is a listed building, what permissions we need to seek to do so.”