Barclays will undergo another wave of closures as 14 more branches across England and Wales will shut down.
It comes after the bank announced in January that it would close 15 branches. Barclays is the latest among many bank chains which have closed multiple locations across the country, with many blaming more customers moving towards online banking and pressures from the Covid pandemic.
Jenny Ross, Which? money editor, said: “While many consumers have embraced digital banking, there are still millions, including the elderly, vulnerable and isolated, who aren’t yet ready or willing to make that switch – and they must be protected. Our figures show how the number of bank branches and free-to-use ATMs has been slashed in recent years, so it’s vital that new legislation protects free access to cash for the millions of people who rely on it.
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“The Government must guarantee minimum levels of access without fees being charged and give the Financial Conduct Authority powers to oversee the cash system to ensure it meets community needs.”
Which banks are going to close?
- Llandeilo - 46 Rhosmaen Street
- Mold - 38/42 High St
- Saltburn-by-the-Sea - 12 Station Street
- Tiverton - 24 Fore Street
- Honiton - 106 High Street
- Caterham - 10 The Square
- Wallington - 112 Woodcote Road
- Folkestone - 65/67 Sandgate Road
- Chippenham - 66 Market Place
- Holmes Chapel - 1 The Square
- Holmfirth - 13/15 Victoria Square
- Bootle- 337/339 Stanley Road
- Loughton - 207 High Road
- Cambridge - 28 Chesterton Road
Braclays will launch a series of "banking pods" after announcing the closures which it claims will expand its "flexible banking formats" in response to changing customer needs. The pods will provide a private space for customers and can be moved depending on demand, according to the bank.
Jo Mayer, head of everyday banking at Barclays UK, said: “Barclays Local provides a flexible way to reach customers in new locations and retain a presence where customer footfall has reduced, bringing face-to-face support to convenient locations. As visits to branches continue to fall, we need to reimagine where and how we show up to provide the best service for customers now and in the future.
“Our new banking pods and community pop-ups help us to tailor our in-person support for each location, including support with digital skills. In areas where we close a branch, we will maintain our presence in that community, offering an alternative face-to-face solution.”
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