Lloyds Banking Group plans to close branches in Hexham and Prudhoe, impacting local residents. The closures are part of a national cost-cutting strategy.
Hexham: Two banks in the Tyne Valley are closing. Lloyds is shutting branches in Hexham and Prudhoe this year. Prudhoe will close in May, and Hexham in November.
Hexham will also lose its Halifax branch on the same day. Lloyds says most customers now prefer online banking. They claim face-to-face transactions have dropped significantly.
For Prudhoe, the nearest branch will be in Blaydon. Hexham customers will have to travel 15.8 miles to Consett. Both towns will also lose their cash machines.
Across the UK, over 130 branches of Lloyds, Halifax, and Bank of Scotland are closing. This decision has upset many in the local communities.
Council members are voicing their concerns. They worry about the impact on vulnerable residents who rely on in-person banking. Many people struggle with online banking or lack transportation.
Local leaders are calling for Lloyds to reconsider. They suggest establishing a banking hub to support residents and businesses. They emphasize that banks are essential for community support.
Some council members feel banks have lost their community focus. They believe government intervention is needed to address this issue. They argue that many people still need access to cash and in-person services.
MP Joe Morris has also reached out to Lloyds, urging them to rethink the closures. He believes banking should be accessible for everyone, regardless of location.
A Lloyds spokesperson responded, stating that many customers now prefer online banking. They mentioned that local Post Offices offer banking services and cash access.
After the closures, a community banker will visit affected areas to provide support. This aims to help residents who still need face-to-face assistance.