Clwyd West Assembly Member Darren Millar has expressed his disappointment and concern that yet another bank in his constituency is set to close.
Lloyds Bank announced today that they have taken the decision to close their branch in Colwyn Bay because of “the changing ways that customers are choosing to bank with us”. The branch will close on the 30 June 2020.
Staff were informed this morning and in an email to Darren the Bank said they will “be writing to customers shortly”.
Criticising the move, Darren said:
“So, North Wales is set to lose yet another bank – I can hardly keep up with all these closures!
“I am disappointed the Lloyds have not considered their customers more before making their decision, particularly the elderly and more vulnerable, for who it is not always easy to travel to another branch. The nearest branch for Colwyn Bay customers is just over 5 miles away in Llandudno, which is quite a distance.
“These constant closures do nothing to enhance the image of the banking industry. I appreciate that banks have to move with the times, but this is a devastating blow to Colwyn Bay, which last year also suffered the loss of Halifax and the year before that the Royal Bank of Scotland.
“Having an accessible local branch is important for not only for older and more vulnerable people, those without transport, or internet access, but also shopkeepers and small businesses. Towns are trying to attract businesses, but moves like this will do nothing to encourage them to come to North Wales.
“I will be writing to Lloyds to outline my concerns and to urge them to reconsider.”