Royal Mail is reviewing the need for its mail distribution centre in Hatfield, Hertfordshire, but does not expect the decision to affect the vehicle operating centre at the same site.

A spokeswoman said the current review of operations at its Northern Home Counties DC does not include the vehicle operating centre located the same site, which is authorised to run 100 vehicles and 80 trailers.

The review was revealed as part of its ongoing transformation programme in which the firm is attempting to consolidate its operations into fewer sites, as well as handle the increase in parcel deliveries and decline in its mail business.

Royal Mail is currently consulting with the Communication Workers Union (CWU) on the proposals, with a decision on the future of the site expected to be reached in six months.

Head of logistics processing Bob Phillips said: “This review is part of our ongoing transformation programme and investment in our business.  This is vital in order to put Royal Mail on a sound footing for the future.”

The operation employs 135 staff and Royal Mail aims to minimise job losses by attempting to find alternative roles within the business.

“Generally speaking, we are committed to make any changes without compulsory redundancies and we expect to be able to find roles for everyone who wants to continue to work for Royal Mail,” a spokeswoman said.

The vehicle operating centre, which employs 124 people, will continue to operate whatever the outcome of the review, the spokeswoman added.

The operator recently reported a 5% decline in mail volume and a 3% drop in turnover derived from its letters business.

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