Town to be left with only two banks after NatWest make 'disappointing' decision
31.03.2023 - 08:55
/ manchestereveningnews.co.uk
NatWest has confirmed that it will be closing their branch inAshton-in-Makerfield, leaving the town ‘disappointed’ now they will only have two banks left. The bank confirmed this decision just six months after announcing they would be closing 43 banks across the UK. The nearest branch to Ashton now will be five miles away on Standishgate, Wigan.
The Gerard Street site will close for good on June 27, leaving only TSB Bank and Nationwide left in the town. The reason given for this closure was the rise in digital banking and the lack of footfall in branches nationwide. According to NatWest’s own figures, between 2019 and 2022, over-the-counter transactions have decreased by 47 per cent.
Coun Danny Fletcher, representative for Ashton, said: “It is extremely disappointing that NatWest have decided to close the Ashton branch. Having spoken to the NatWest area manager, Robert Taylor, I have been assured that there will be no job losses and all current customers will be offered support in terms of banking activities. READ MORE: "The Dodge City days are over": The future for three Greater Manchester towns
“I did highlight how I feel NatWest could benefit from Ashton’s regeneration plans over the next 12 months, however Natwest’s decision is final. This is due to changing behaviours in how people bank.
“It will be disappointing to see NatWest leave our high street, but I can assure residents that I will be working to ensure the building does not remain vacant.”
The bank does have a partnership with the Post Office which means that customers can make use of their service through the partner - which is a short distance from the branch due to close. Despite this, NatWest have a dedicated support line for customers who are over 60
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