Applications to run a replacement Post Office in Solihull town centre are progressing, according to an update shared by Solihull West and Shirley MP Dr Neil Shastri-Hurst.

The update comes after the closure of the Post Office branch inside TGJones in Mell Square earlier this year, which sparked concern among residents and businesses who relied on the service.

Sharing a response from Post Office on social media, Dr Shastri-Hurst said: "Here is the response from the Post Office regarding an update on the Solihull Town Centre Post Office."

A Post Office spokesperson said: "Post Office are pleased to confirm that applications are progressing.

"Once a successful applicant has been confirmed, Post Office will provide further details about the branch location and opening date."

No location or opening date for a replacement branch has yet been announced.

The former branch closed when TGJones shut its doors in July, leaving Solihull town centre without a Post Office.

The closure prompted concern from local businesses, including independent retailer Liv's, which previously told Nub News it would have to return to using alternative courier services after benefiting from Royal Mail's reliability through the town centre branch.

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At the time, Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council (SMBC) said it was supporting potential franchise applications by exploring suitable premises within the town centre.

While further details have yet to be revealed, the latest update suggests progress is being made towards securing a new operator for the town centre service.