A HAMPSHIRE architect is trying to "breathe new life" into three ailing post offices while saving the businesses for the community.

Axis Architecture is working with developers to regenerate post offices in Gosport, Shirley in Southampton and Newport on the Isle of Wight.

The Portsmouth-based firm is working on small urban regeneration projects that restructure existing post office buildings to create both retail outlets and accommodation.

In most cases, the schemes keep the original façade of the existing post office, while providing ground-floor retail space and the flexibility for affordable accommodation in the upper floors.

Currently the post office project in Gosport High Street will offer a new convenience store combined with post office services and three flats above. The first phase is due to be completed in January, with the new counter services being opened. The whole project is due for completion at Easter.

A similar project is awaiting the go-ahead at Newport post office, which is a listed building in an Isle of Wight conservation area.

The project in Shirley, which will provide a convenience store with integral post office, staff facilities and flats, is currently undergoing a planning review.

Axis director Rob Winzar said: "It's essential to breathe new life into post offices if they are to survive in a culture of online facilities.

"Developments such as these are also essential in the regeneration of city centres, creating homes and employment."