Postbox for the future

RED postboxes have undergone their biggest redesign in 175 years with Royal Mail adding solar panels and parcel scanners.

- By Richard Ashmore

Dubbed “postboxes for the future”, 3,500 overhauled pillar boxes will be rolled out across the UK in the next few months.

New design features include a lopsided topper that contains solar power technology. A large drop-down parcel deposit hatch allows people to scan and send packages without having to use a post office. Royal Mail has had to find new ways to compete with rivals in the delivery market.