Lloyds, Barclays, NatWest, Halifax and Santander Announce Closure of 24 Branches in November – See the Complete List
In a move affecting many customers, four major UK banks will close 24 branches in November. This decision impacts significant locations from Bristol to Sheffield, causing a shift in how customers access banking services.
Details of the Upcoming Bank Closures
Lloyds Bank leads the list with the highest number of closures. A total of 17 branches will shut down, including notable locations like Bristol Bishopsworth and Manchester Newton Heath. The closures extend to other banks as well, including Barclays, NatWest, Halifax, and Santander.
Branch Closure Overview
- Lloyds Bank:
- Biggleswade – November 5
- Blandford – November 10
- Bristol Bishopsworth – November 6
- Chard – November 11
- Coventry Foleshill – November 4
- Dunstable – November 4
- East Grinstead – November 12
- Feltham – November 4
- Ferndown – November 17
- Hexham – November 5
- Loughton – November 12
- Manchester Newton Heath – November 5
- Plymstock – November 4
- Pontardawe – November 20
- Sheffield Woodhouse – November 11
- Shipston-on-Stour – November 11
- Bank of Scotland:
- Moffat – November 19
- Thornhill – November 3
- Barclays:
- Northampton Wellingborough Road – November 28
- Halifax:
- Bolton – November 20
- Hexham – November 10
- Wickford – November 10
- NatWest:
- Garstang – November 10
- Santander:
- Surrey Quays – November 10
Impact of Bank Closures
The recent trend of bank closures has raised concerns about the accessibility of banking services. Since 2015, over 6,300 branches have ceased operations in the UK, equating to more than 64% of branches in existence a decade ago.
Consumer advocate Which? reveals that the average closure rate is approximately 50 branches per month. This pace highlights a notable shift towards online banking and digital payment methods.
Challenges for Vulnerable Populations
These closures disproportionately affect vulnerable communities, such as the elderly and those with limited access to digital services. The reduction in physical banking locations complicates cash handling for businesses, potentially leading to more establishments refusing cash payments.
The long-term effects of these closures will continue to unfold in the coming months. It remains essential for customers to adapt to changing banking landscapes, particularly as physical branches become less available.