VILLAGERS in Nether Stowey could be without a Post Office for the first time in more than 150 years unless a buyer is found before the current owners retire at the end of the year.

After running the business for 16 years, owners Diane and Colin Penny have put their shop, Post Office, and a former tea room and residential accommodation on the market with a guide price of £400,000, which does not include the postal franchise.

The building already has planning permission to convert the commercial space into residential accommodation, which could mean the permanent loss of the village's Post Office.

Nest Associates estate agent Ross Walls said: “Although the property presents exciting redevelopment opportunities, it also offers an established and profitable business.

“The Post Office currently operates under its original contract with a fixed monthly fee and commission on parcels, stamps, banking, and other services including DVLA and foreign currency.

“This generates more than £30,000 a year in Post Office remuneration alone, before additional income from the retail business and associated services.

“Subject to approval and transfer, that contract would continue with a new owner.

Inside the shop and Post Office in Nether Stowey which has been put up for sale with the retirement of the owners.
Inside the shop and Post Office in Nether Stowey which has been put up for sale with the retirement of the owners. (Nest Associates)

“The business also serves as a Royal Mail, DPD, and Amazon Hub collection and return point, making it an essential service for residents, local businesses, and visitors alike.”

If a purchaser is not found who wishes to continue operating the business, the Post Office will cease trading from January 1 next year.

It would leave residents in Nether Stowey and surrounding villages without a local postal service indefinitely, as Mr and Mrs Penny believed there were no other suitable premises in the village for a Post Office.

Mr Penny said the feeling in the village was that the Post Office provided vital services for elderly residents, people without easy access to transport, local businesses, and community organisations.

He said closure would mean people had to make a round trip of 18 miles to either Williton or Bridgwater for the nearest Post Office offering banking, parcels, bill payments, and Government transactions.

Mr Penny said: "This is far more than the sale of a property.

"It is an opportunity to preserve an important community asset while acquiring an established business with a secure income stream.

“My wife and I are taking a long overdue retirement but we hope somebody will continue the service we have built up over the past 16 years which has been at the heart of village life.”

The property includes living accommodation, a former tearoom with commercial kitchen facilities, a south-facing garden, and scope for either continued mixed-use occupation or residential redevelopment.

Mr Walls said: “If converted entirely into housing, whether as a single-family home or two apartments, Nether Stowey would lose one of its most valued community facilities.

“Every week that passes without a buyer brings the village one step closer to losing a service that has been part of community life for generations.”

More information can be obtained and viewing arrangements made by calling Mr Walls on 01984 636700.