MP seeks reassurance over bank branch closures
MP Philip Dunne is seeking reassurance about the future of bank branches in South Shropshire, as HSBC announce their intention to close their branch in Church Stretton.
The branch Church Stretton will close on Friday 17 dunne April at 3.30pm. HSBC and first direct personal current account customers can now access their bank account at Post Office branches. As a result, customers will now also be able to use the Post Office located at 50 Sandford Avenue, Church Stretton for cash withdrawals, cash deposits, cheque deposits and balance enquiries.
HSBC have stressed no staff will be made redundant as a result of this move, but instead relocated to other branches.
Mr Dunne said “I regret HSBC’s decision to close their Church Stretton branch.
"Access to banking services are vital in rural communities like Shropshire. This decision, coupled with recent branch closures in Bishop’s Castle, Craven Arms and reduced hours in Much Wenlock, is cause for concern.
"I have already contacted both Barclays and Lloyds, who have both expressed their intent to maintain their branch networks, and I will be in touch with other banks to seek further assurances. I shall also be meeting senior management of HSBC to discuss my concerns that they should not leave rural customers in the lurch.
"I am pleased that the Post Office now has the ability to offer basic banking services for customers of most high street banks, including HSBC. I also understand that more people now bank online, reducing the need for services offered in branch. But for a community like ours, with a high proportion of elderly people and variable internet connectivity, it is important that bank branch networks are maintained.”
