Changes to delivery times in two postal areas (From The Advertiser Series)

Changes to delivery times in two Durham postal areas

4:22pm Monday 4th March 2013 in News By Bruce Unwin, Chief Reporter (Durham)

MAIL deliveries have been revised in two postal areas with customers advised to expect to receive deliveries at different times.

The Royal Mail is notifying every household, business and other addressee of changes in Durham delivery areas DH4 and DH5 introduced this week (from Monday March 4).

It covers an area spanning the Durham/Sunderland county boundary, affecting deliveries in Houghton-le-Spring, Hetton-le-Hole, Fencehouses, Easington Lane, Bournmoor, Shiney Row, Penshaw, Newbottle, Philadelphia, Leamside, plus East and West Rainton.

The changes involve phasing in new delivery methods and revised routes to enable postmen and women to carry larger items, designed to reduce the risk of injury.

Morning deliveries will continue, but some will span a longer period each day.

A Royal Mail spokesman said: “The time customers receive mail will depend where they live on the new delivery route.

“This may be later or possibly earlier than current delivery times.

“When mail volumes vary, we may need to adjust delivery arrangements and times.”

Royal Mail collections and delivery sector manager, Pete Dickinson, said: “We’re proud of the high regard in which our postmen and women are held in the DH4 and DH5 postcode areas.

“The changes to delivery routes will mean members of our local and experienced team will still be delivering to customers in these areas.” Further queries will be answered by Royal Mail customer services, on 0845-601 1399.

Deaf and hard of hearing customers can use textphone: 0845-600 0606.

Local elected representatives and business groups have been told of the changes.