Protecting Post Office Services in Fort William

That the Parliament notes with concern the closure of the Post Office in Fort William; recognises what it sees as the vital role that post offices play in communities across Scotland, particularly in rural and remote areas, by providing access to postal, banking, cash and other essential services; understands that more than 500 people have signed a community petition opposing the closure of the Fort William branch; congratulates local residents and campaigners for what it sees as their strong demonstration of community support for retaining the service, including at a public demonstration in Fort William on 22 August 2026; believes that the loss of face-to-face services can disproportionately affect elderly people, those without access to private transport and people who are unable or less comfortable accessing services digitally; considers that Fort William serves as an important hub for communities across Lochaber and the wider Highlands; believes that communities should not be expected to continually travel further to access basic services as banks and other facilities withdraw from rural areas, and hopes that Post Office services can continue to be provided in an accessible and sustainable form in Fort William.