NatWest and Halifax are planning to shut down 39 bank branches in September, dealing a significant blow to their customers. Among these closures, 26 NatWest branches and 13 Halifax branches will cease operations. The trend of branch closures is on the rise as more individuals opt for online banking services, leading to concerns from charities about the impact on vulnerable individuals who rely on traditional banking facilities.
According to data from Which?, a total of 6,443 bank branches have closed since January 2015, averaging 53 closures per month. Looking ahead, there are 432 bank closures scheduled for 2025, with NatWest, Halifax, Santander, Lloyds, Bank of Scotland, TSB, and Barclays among the institutions making these changes.
Additionally, there are 22 bank branches slated for closure in 2026, including branches from Lloyds, Halifax, and Bank of Scotland. If your local branch is affected by these closures, basic cash and counter services can be accessed at nearby Post Offices. Some banks have introduced pop-up branches or vans as alternatives, but customers are advised to check online for schedules.
NatWest emphasized the increasing preference for digital services among customers, highlighting the speed and convenience it offers for everyday transactions. However, the bank also acknowledges the value customers place on engaging with knowledgeable staff for more complex financial decisions. Similarly, Lloyds Banking Group, the parent company of Halifax, noted the extensive use of mobile apps by over 20 million customers for instant access to their finances, providing flexibility and choice for day-to-day banking needs. Customers are encouraged to utilize various channels, including telephone banking, community bankers, and branches from Halifax, Lloyds, and Bank of Scotland, in addition to the wide network of Post Offices and Banking Hubs available for everyday banking activities.