Sir Gavin Williamson has shown concern at plans to shut the Lloyds branch in Stone and has called upon the bank to explore options for maintaining a face-to-face service.
Sir Gavin has expressed his disappointment at the announcement that Stone’s last remaining bank, a Lloyds branch on the high street, is set to close in April 2024. He will be meeting with representatives from the bank to discuss ways to maintain an in-person service.
In particular, he has voiced his concern over the impact this closure will have on vulnerable and elderly people in the community, as well as on local businesses. Data has shown that 40% of people over the age of 65, which accounts for over 4 million people, do not use online banking, while 44% of people over the age of 55 would rather visit their local branch. Moreover, recent surveys have found that in-person banking was also more popular among over 20% of younger people.
Sir Gavin recently spearheaded a successful campaign to persuade Barclays to maintain face-to-face banking services in Wombourne. Following a survey which attracted 1500 responses from residents concerned about the closure, the bank decided to open a Barclays Local service in Wombourne Library.
Sir Gavin said: “It is bitterly disappointing to see yet another bank close its doors, especially since Lloyds is the last remaining bank in Stone. Face-to-face banking support is crucial for the more vulnerable and elderly members of our community, and it helps keep the high street alive.”
“After our successful campaign to keep face-to-face banking services available in Wombourne, I strongly encourage Lloyds to consider different options for maintaining an in-person service in Stone. I will be meeting with representatives from the bank and will make sure to stand up for all those in the local community who are worried by this announcement.”
