Felpham Post Office's pop-up shed approved

From left: Tracey Chapman, Ali Arnell-Smith, Baloo and Mark Chapman.

A wooden shed out the front of Felpham Post Office car park has been filled with businesses selling their wares from guitar lessons to candles and jewellery.

Read our original story here: Felpham post office sets up pop-up shop to help local tradersThe team at Felpham Post Office were later told the shed would need planning permission and after submitting the plans (FP/226/19/PL) in October, they were told last week they had been successful.

Manager Mark Chapman said: "It's definitely very good news."

The application also received a number of support comments. Mark said: "After about 100 [support comments] I gave up. It went a little bit crazy. It's been bonkers.

"Thank you to everyone who has supported it and hopefully we go from strength to strength."

Post office sales assistant Ali Arnell-Smith said: "We are just pleased we can continue with the idea which has been so popular — everyone is so pleased with how it has gone.

One of the comments in support of the application came from Reverend John Challis who said: "The Post Office is part of the centre of the community. The pop up shop has brought depth and diversity to the area.

"It aids local people to have a voice, raise awareness of charities as well as adding to the economy.

"More needs to be done with local landlords to reduce rent and rates to encourage more people to take risks and open shops that are currently closed.

"Felpham could be an excellent place to shop and visit. There is plenty of parking but a lack of traders. Mark and the team are bucking that trend and all should be done to encourage this growth."

Tabitha Manton said: "I own a local business in the village and think that the post offices pop up shop is a brilliant and thriving idea.

"It's an asset to the village, giving so many small businesses a way to reach out to people and build their businesses up but also to provide services to the village that some of its older resident may not be so able to access.

"I don't see how the summerhouse is causing any harm to anyone.

"Long may it remain and continue to bring the community together."