Branches Shutting Down in Just Hours
Natwest, a major UK bank, will be closing 18 branches this month, with several set to close in just a matter of hours. This brings the total number of branches closed by the bank this year to 126.
The Shift Towards Online Banking
Bank branches have been closing regularly over the past few years as more and more customers opt for online banking. Yesterday, branches in Southampton and Sidcup were closed, and today we will see the closure of branches in Woodley, Berkshire and Southgate, north London.
Full List of Branch Closures
Here is the full list of the latest Natwest and RBS branches set to close:
- Natwest, Southgate – October 5
- Natwest, Woodley – October 5
- Natwest, Stanmore – October 10
- Natwest, Tiverton – October 10
- Natwest, Parkhouse Industrial Estate – October 11
- Natwest, London – October 11
- Natwest, Beckton – October 12
- Natwest, Weybridge – October 12
- Natwest, Wickersley – October 17
- Natwest, Prestwich – October 18
- Natwest, Tavistock – October 18
- Natwest, Alton – October 19
- Natwest, Exmouth – October 19
- Natwest, Norwich – October 31
- Natwest, Wanstead – October 31
- Natwest, Leicester – November 2
- Natwest, Camborne – November 7
- Natwest, Plymouth – November 7
- Natwest, Colchester – November 7
- Natwest, Ipswich – November 8
- Natwest, Shotton – November 9
- Natwest, London – November 9
- RBS, Dingwall – November 1
- RBS, Dundee – November 2
Support for Customers
Natwest acknowledges that digital solutions are not suitable for every customer and situation. The bank is investing in providing support and alternatives to ensure that no one is left behind. A spokesperson for Natwest said, "We take our responsibility seriously to support the people who face challenges in moving online."
The Future of Traditional Banking
According to Which?, by the end of 2023, The Natwest Group will have closed a total of 1,299 branches. The group includes Natwest, Royal Bank of Scotland, and Ulster. The increasing popularity of online banking is driving this shift away from traditional brick-and-mortar branches.
What to Do If Your Local Branch Closes
For those without internet access, especially the elderly, the closure of local bank branches can pose challenges. However, there are alternatives available:
– Use one of the Post Office's 11,635 branches for most banking tasks.
– Mobile banking services such as banking buses and mobile branches are offered by many banks.
– Some banks use buildings like village halls or libraries to provide mobile banking services.
– Banking hubs, which offer traditional shared services, have been set up in various locations across the UK.
It's worth contacting your bank or building society to explore these options and find out which services are available near you.
New Banking Hubs
Eight new banking hubs have been set up in the following locations:
- Downham Market (Norfolk)
- Shirebrook (Derbyshire)
- Otley (West Yorkshire)
- Sidmouth (Devon)
- Newton Aycliffe (County Durham)
- Porthcawl (Bridgend)
- Withernsea (East Yorkshire)
- Wellington (Somerset)
In addition, there are already four banking hubs open in Brixham, Cambuslang, Cottingham, and Rochford.
