Royal Mail is “exploring the option” of moving its Hampton delivery office to Ashford.

RM said the proposed new location in Feltham Hill Road, just under five miles away, has “sufficient space” for Hampton delivery operations.

A spokesman said: “It would also enable us to improve facilities for our people and our customers in the TW12 postcode area.

“Hampton delivery office is a small building built in 1960 which now no longer meets our requirements.”

If the relocation from Rosehill goes ahead, RM said there will be “no impact on deliveries to our customers” and “if customers choose to collect mail from us because they were not at home when we tried to deliver it, they will be able to do this from the customer service point at Ashford delivery office”.

If the move goes ahead, RM said a detailed planning process will be carried out.

Hampton Councillor Gareth Roberts said: “While we would prefer this facility to remain as a sorting office, if the decision to relocate is taken then I hope the site will be acquired for genuinely affordable housing via a housing association. 

“Hampton has seen a significant amount of luxury development either built or proposed over recent years.

“We need to ensure future generations aren't priced out of Hampton.”  

However, Cllr Roberts described plans to require residents to collect undelivered mail from Ashford as “wholly unacceptable”. 

He added: “It simply beggars belief that a more suitable alternative can't be found. 

“I would urge Royal Mail to come up with a more innovative solution, such as partnering with our Post Office, to maintain a viable yet secure offering right here in Hampton.”

What’s your view? Contact: grainne.cuffe@newsquest.co.uk