Bank bosses urged to reverse closure of Upton's Lloyds branch - The Malvern Observer

Bank bosses urged to reverse closure of Upton's Lloyds branch

Malvern Editorial 10th May, 2018   0

BANKING chiefs have been urged to listen to the views of Upton residents who have been left furious by Lloyds’ decision to close its branch, leaving the town without a bank.

Malvern MP Harriett Baldwin made the call after a meeting with senior director Benedict Brogan to discuss the issues facing Upton residents if the High Street branch closes its doors in October.

A petition with 927 signatures was handed over during the meeting which saw the bank boss explain to Mrs Baldwin why Lloyds had decided to axe the branch.

A further meeting between Mrs Baldwin and Mr Brogan has been agreed to discuss the outcome of the bank’s fresh assessment.




The closure, as well as the loss of the bank’s 24-hour cashpoint, is expected to have a huge negative impact on the town’s people, businesses and the thousands of tourists who visit Upton.

“The reaction of local people is absolutely clear,” said Mrs Baldwin.


“They disagree with this decision and I am grateful to everyone who has signed this petition as well as the Upton Business Association and local traders, who helped to gather the signatures.

“I had a constructive meeting with Lloyds Bank and we have aired some of the major issues facing Upton people if the bank does close.

“I plan to get as many local views as possible and will be reaching out to local stakeholders in the coming weeks to make sure we make the strongest possible case to the bank’s senior management.”

Lloyds had previously confirmed there were no plans to close Upton’s branch and Mrs Baldwin met with chief executive Antonio Horta-Osorio two years ago to press for a continued bank presence in the town.

A Lloyds Bank spokesperson said the difficult decision to close the bank was made due to the drop in numbers using the branch.

They confirmed a new mobile service would be implemented in its place but vowed to listen to Mrs Baldwin’s concerns.

“The new mobile branch service will provide a vital service to the Upton area by giving customers access to everyday banking services such as making deposits, withdrawing cash and paying bills,” the spokesperson added.

Public Notices

View and download all of the public notices in the Malvern Observer.

Recruitment

Find a career you'll love with our free career finder website.

Business Directory

From plumbers, to restaurants, we can provide you with all the info you need.

Buy Photos

Buy photos online from the Malvern Observer newspaper.