UNDER pressure bank chiefs have vowed to ensure Upton residents have access to a cashpoint 24 hours a day when the branch closes its doors for the final time following a campaign by furious residents and the town’s MP.
Lloyds Bank chiefs hit the headlines earlier this year when they revealed the Upton branch would close in October, leaving residents without a bank.
West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin demanded action be taken and handed over a petition signed by 927 residents to the bank’s senior director, Benedict Brogan, during a meeting in May.
At the time, Mrs Baldwin stressed axing the branch in the Autumn would have a negative impact on the town’s people, businesses and the thousands of tourists who visit Upton.
Following further talks between the two this month it was agreed a 24-hour cashpoint would be retained in town.
Lloyds chiefs have also agreed to send a mobile bank to Upton once a week when the branch closes but have encouraged customers to also use the town’s Post Office for their banking needs.
“The cashpoint machine issue was particularly concerning for people and I am glad the bank’s managers heard the feedback and have agreed to identify a permanent solution,” said Mrs Baldwin.
“It is disappointing the bank has made the decision to close the town’s final bank, particularly after they assured me they would not.
“It is incumbent on the bank to ensure the most vulnerable people are properly supported to be able continue their banking as easily as possible.
“I plan to keep a dialogue open with the bank as it now starts to plan for closure and urge people who have specific problems with this change to get in touch both with me and the bank.”
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.
However, a Lloyds Bank spokesperson said the difficult decision to close the bank was made due to the drop in numbers using the branch.
“Following a meeting with MP Harriet Baldwin and key local representatives, we have committed to ensuring a 24-hour ATM will remain available in Upton after our branch closes in October,” the spokesperson added.
“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.”
