The move is part of major modernisation programme across the Post Office network designed to make it easier for customers to do business, through longer opening hours and modern environments, according to the company. The new branch will be at Jempson’s supermarket – 25 metres from its current site on Station Approach. Post Office regional network manager south Will Russell said: “We understand how important having a Post Office is to residents in Rye and we are confident that this new modern Post Office will meet the needs of the local community and secure services for the future. “The modernisation is part of a major investment programme to convert the Post Office network to new-style branches. “This investment, the largest in the history of the Post Office, makes a commitment to no more branch closure programmes.” The new Rye Post Office will have three serving positions – a mixture of two open-plan counters and one screened position. Opening hours are being extended by 42 hours a week, including Saturday afternoon. The branch would open significantly earlier and close much later each day. The new opening hours will be Monday to Saturday 6am to 10pm, instead of closing at 5.30pm weekdays and 12.30pm on Saturdays. The date of the relocation is to be confirmed. The supermarket is being extended to accommodate the Post Office and the whole retail premises are being refurbished to provide a modern fresh environment for customers. The Post Office will be working closely with its operator in the design of the new branch to make sure the internal layout provides adequate space and privacy for customers and access into and inside the store is kept clear and free of obstacles. Directional signs will also be displayed throughout the store guiding customers to the Post Office area. More than £2.6bn has been invested in the Post Office since 2012 allowing the company to modernise 8000 branches and invest £20million in updating 3400 community stores which are often the last Post Office in the village, according to the firm. Don’t miss out on all the latest breaking news where you live. Here are four ways you can be sure you’ll be amongst the first to know what’s going on. 1) Make our website your homepage at www.ryeandbattleobserver.co.uk/ 2) Like our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/RyeandBattleObserver 3) Follow us on Twitter Text to display 4) Register with us by clicking on ‘sign in’ (top right corner). You can then receive our daily newsletter AND add your point of view to stories that you read here. And do share with your family and friends - so they don’t miss out! The Rye and Battle Observer - always the first with your local news. Be part of it.