Problems with postcodes are more widespread

I WAS interested to learn that parts of ‘Leeds’ have ‘Bradford’ postcodes, and the resultant though unintended adverse effect on house prices and insurance premiums which result.

We in Saddleworth have a similar problem, particularly with insurance. Saddleworth is geographically and historically part of the West Riding of Yorkshire, but has been allocated Oldham (Lancashire) postcodes. The result is that post for Saddleworth often comes addressed as Lancashire!

While Saddleworth is currently administered by Oldham Council it is not part of the town of Oldham, and is not, and never has been in Lancashire.

When the Post Office introduced postcodes, the system was designed entirely for their own convenience, without thought or consideration for, or consultation with, local communities. In some areas, this has caused great resentment, both as a result of the now prevalent use of the postcode system for purposes for which it was probably not originally designed, and the feeling that we are being disenfranchised by diluting local identity.

It is my belief that Saddleworth, which is 53 per cent of the Borough of Oldham, should have its own postcode letters. A search on the internet suggests that both SD & SH codes are currently unused. Several local groups have campaigned for many years and made requests for our local postcodes to be reviewed. However the Post Office appears to be uncaring of local opinion.

I wish Stuart Andrew MP every success in his efforts on behalf of his constituents, and perhaps he may use Saddleworth as a further example of where resentment has been caused to local communities by the Post Office.