I met with Barclays Bank yesterday regarding their decision to close their branch on Wellfield Road on 20th October 2023.

Barclays say that there are only a small number of regular customers to the branch who do not use other types of banking, like online or mobile banking, with them. I was told that their decision to close the branch is final and that there’ll be no review of that decision. Barclays say their priority now is to help those customers adapt to the different arrangements that will be available to them in the future.

I reiterated that some customers will need bespoke assistance to continue their banking and I was assured that any customer who needs it will be given a personal appointment at the branch, to discuss their situation and help and support will be provided. This may include training in how to use internet and mobile banking if needed.

Barclays confirmed to me that they will open a ‘Touchpoint community site’ in the area ahead of the branch closure date.

The community site will open five days a week but will not handle cash or cheques. Barclays have advised that their alternative facilities for processing cash or cheques will be at their nearest branch to Wellfield Road which is in the City Centre, or via the Post Office on Albany Road.

I am very disappointed by the decision of Barclays Bank to close their branch. They are required to undertake a consultation on the closure, which they are doing, but that consultation is not going to alter their decision.

Barclays advise that they have written to their customers to ensure that they are aware of the branch closure.