Luke Murphy MP for Basingstoke “cut the ribbon” (11/10) to mark the official opening of Basingstoke Post Office with new, experienced, postmasters Kalyan Kumar and Jagpal Garg, with refreshments served for the community.
Basingstoke Post Office has opened at a new location to restore Post Office service to the town centre at 4 Loddon Mall, Basingstoke, RG21 7HY.
This replaces the previous branch, which was close by, had been inside the WHSmith store which closed in February.
Luke Murphy MP said: Luke Murphy MP said: “Many residents have raised with me their frustration over the closure and then delays to the reopening of the Post Office in The Malls. I’m really pleased to be reopening this really vital service today, a big boost for The Malls and our town centre. I want to thank co-owners Kalyan Kumar and Jagpal Garg for their big investment into this store. I am delighted that this has re-opened in time for the busy Christmas period.”
The new location of Basingstoke Post Office is opposite Primark and it is near the train station, making it convenient to visit. There is time restricted parking, with disabled bays, on Clifton Terrance Road and car parking is also available in The Malls Shopping Centre.
Basingstoke Post Office is open Monday to Saturday: 9am – 5.30pm, providing 51 hours of Post Office service per week.
The council-owned premises, which had been empty, underwent a refurbishment to provide a modern light, bright and airy store, with a welcoming feel. There is easy access for people with mobility issues to visit and to move around the store.
Co-Leader of Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council Cllr Gavin James said: “It is fantastic to see the new Post Office branch now open in our town centre and already delivering a first class service for the community.
“The closure of the previous Post Office was deeply felt by the community so it was important to us to fast track discussions to secure a new location to restore essential services for residents and businesses as quickly as possible.
“We would like to welcome the new owners to The Malls and look forward to them playing a vital role in the heart of our town, as part of a wider package of improvements we are delivering for the town centre.”
The initial focus was to get the Post Office open as soon as possible. Retail of cards, stationery and gifts have now been added, with plans for mobile accessories and toys.
There is one full screened Post Office counter and two open-plan Post Office counters offering the same wide range of Post Office services as before.
There are two experienced postmasters Kalyan Kumar and Jagpal Garg, who are co-owners of Basingstoke Post Office. Kalyan became a postmaster in 2019, taking on Hownslow Heath near Heathrow and in early 2025 he also took on Petersfield branch. While Jagpal, his business partner, has run Uxbridge Road branch in Shepherd’s Bush for nine years. All are busy mains branches offering the same full range of Post Office services that are available at Basingstoke branch.
Postmaster Kalyan Kumar said: “Word is spreading that Basingstoke Post Office has opened and where it is located, which makes it easy to find. People are coming in with big smiles and thanking us. They are impressed with the new-look Post Office and we have now added lots of retail, with more being introduced in the next few weeks. We are excited to be serving the people of Basingstoke.”
“People really missed the Post Office for sending and collecting parcels, including DPD buy in branch, drop offs and collections. With more bank closures it’s also a very useful place for people to do their personal and business banking, and bill payments.
“There’s a full range of travel currencies on demand and people can get their passports renewed, checked and sent from here and we have a photo booth. Customers can also renew their driving licence photocard and vehicle tax and there are ID verification services and Western Union international money transfers.”
Postmaster, Jagpal Garg, said: “We are dedicated to treating every customer with professionalism, respect, and genuine care. Our team takes great pride in assisting everyone—especially elderly and vulnerable members of the community—ensuring that each visit is a positive and pleasant experience. Our goal is for every customer to leave with a smile on their face and to experience the friendly, efficient, and reliable service that the community deserves.
“The excitement and gratitude from the public about the post office’s return to the mall have been truly heart-warming. This appreciation inspires us to continue delivering the highest standard of service, with the full support of our dedicated team members.”