TWO more Somerset banks are to close, it has been announced.
In the latest round of closures announced by high street banking giant NatWest, branches in Bridgwater and Midsomer Norton are included, with doors set to shut in October.
The outlets are among 55 sites the chain has listed for closure as it seeks to address changing behaviour among customers – including the rise of online banking.
“Over 80 per cent of our active current account holders now use our digital services and over 97 per cent of retail accounts with us are now opened online,” a spokesperson said.
The news has provoked comment from residents and leaders in the county, including MP Anna Sabine (Lib Dem, Frome & East Somerset), who said the decision to close the Midsomer Norton branch was “not acceptable” as it leaves “just one remaining bank in the town”.
The NatWest in Midsomer Norton is set to close. Picture: Google
“Access to cash and face-to-face banking is essential – especially for older residents, local businesses, and those without reliable access to online banking, which in a rural area like ours, includes many people,” she added.
“I have an urgent meeting with LINK Cash Access to challenge this decision, demand a full impact assessment, and consultation with proper alternatives for the community and am contacting NatWest for answers.
“I’m committed to securing answers and pushing for a long-term solution for local banking in Midsomer Norton – and I want to hear from you.”
People can contact the MP by email at anna.sabine.mp@parliament.uk.
NatWest branches closing in Somerset and Dorset:
Bridgwater, 9 York Buildings, Bridgwater, TA6 3BS: October 27
Bridport, 22 East Street, Bridport, DT6 3LG: October 29
Dorchester, 49 South Street, Dorchester, DT1 1DW: October 22
Midsomer Norton, 3 High Street, Radstock, BA3 2LE: October 8
Portishead, 25 High Street, Bristol, BS20 6BL: Date to be confirmed
Ringwood, 11 High Street, Ringwood, BH24 1BA: October 1
Yate, 3-5 North Walk, Bristol, BS37 4AG: September 25
It is yet another “mail in the coffin” for the High Street… The banks do not care about their customers any more, it’s all about getting profit for the big boys! Not everyone can use internet banking, in many rural areas there is no wi-fi or phone coverage, so how are they going to manage???
Every time I go into my bank it is always busy with customers, so how can they say there’s not much use??? There are lots of instances when I’ve had to talk to a human being in person to sort out banking issues, these latest closures just show how little “customer service” means to the powers in charge.
There should be an public outrage and inquiry into all these closures, but no party are going to upset the banks!!
I feel so sorry for all the staff who will loose their jobs.