Following NatWest's announcement to close its doors and join Barclays and TSB, the Advertiser heard what people think about banks closing doors.
As banks continue to close in town, the Advertiser heard people’s opinions on their departures and the rise of online services to replace them.
NatWest announced this week that it will be closing on June 17, meaning it will join Lloyds TSB and Barclays who have already left the town in 2023.
As a number of branches continue to close across the country, people are forced to use online banking, which not everyone is a fan of, especially elderly people.
Ian Holmes said: “I prefer going to the bank because people who aren’t very modern on technology, if they all end up shutting I would be lost because where would I sort out my money?
“I am not too clever with my phone so I think it would be a big loss for any town.”
Some residents such as Sandra M. and Lucy Sheldon mainly use online banking, however, they agreed that despite not being directly affected by the bank closures, it is a shame for people who still use them.
Lynne Lamb said: “I do online banking and both of my banks are still open so I am safe so far but it isn’t just banks, is it?”
Lloyds TSB, which used to be on 37 Castlegate, closed its doors on May 9, 2023 and the Barclays branch on Market Place closed on August 17, 2023.
Christine Nobel said that she suspected that now things will get more complex.
She added: “It is very difficult because I strictly keep things as simple as possible, I haven’t changed, I haven’t gone online and it worked.”
Kate Calthrop said: “I use online banking but I do like to go to NatWest to see people and occasionally, it is better to talk to a human being and consult them on how I am using my money.”
As people fear the lack of human contact and an extra complicated banking life, scams are a big highlight of the dislike for online banking.
Chris Burns said: “I think they all want our money and they don’t want to give us any service.”
What is your opinion about banks closing down? Let us know your opinion in the comments below…