PERSHORE’s MP Harriett Baldwin has welcomed a commitment to keep a bank branch open in the town until a permanent replacement can be found a home.
Lloyds Bank confirmed last month it was to close its Pershore branch but managers have insisted the bank will not ‘shut up shop’ until a permanent banking hub is opened in the town centre.
The closure of Lloyds means Pershore will be left without high street bank triggering a national drive to create a banking hub – where each major bank will be represented allowing customers to carry out basic transactions.
Mrs Baldwin met with local bank managers to discuss the impact the branch closure will have on local people and businesses.
“I’ve already expressed my deep dissatisfaction at the closure and I fear it is short sighted,” she said.
“Pershore is thriving with plenty of new shops on the high street and Aldi investing £5million in a new store.
“I visited the bank’s local management on a Friday morning when there were queues at the cashpoint and staff working hard inside to help customers do their banking.
“I am hopeful, that even at this stage, the bank will look at the unfavourable coverage and rethink their decision.”
The West Worcestershire MP acknowledged the way many of us bank is moving online but welcomed the commitment to keeping the branch open until a workable ‘hub’ solution is in place.
“Some people rely on their physical bank and hard-working staff – especially elderly and vulnerable customers – and they should not be sacrificed because the high street banks want to turn an even larger profit,” Mrs Baldwin added.
“I will be working closely with the team delivering a new hub to try and unblock any obstacles, but I am relieved that Lloyds has committed to doing the right thing and keeping a presence in Pershore until the hub is open.”
