Last bank closure 'a blow to residents'

The closure of Willenhall town centre's last remaining bank raises "serious concerns about the future vitality" of the area, according to a ward councillor.

Last week, Lloyds Bank announced it would be closing its branch there on 5 November. It follows the closure of HSBC in 2017 and Barclays in 2018, with both units remaining vacant ever since.

"The closure of Lloyds Bank in Willenhall is extremely disappointing and represents yet another setback for our town centre and local community," said Simran Cheema, Labour MP.

Lloyds said "the majority" of its customers chose to use online banking to manage their money.

According to Cheema, digital alternatives cannot replace face-to-face banking services.

"For many residents, particularly older people, those with disabilities, and those who are less confident using online banking services, the branch provides an essential face-to-face service that cannot be replaced," she said.

"This decision also raises serious concerns about the future vitality of Willenhall town centre."

Cheema said she had written to the bank asking it to reconsider its decision.

"Lloyds Bank is the last remaining bank in the town centre, and its loss will leave residents and businesses without access to a local banking facility," she added.

A spokesperson for Lloyds said: "With access to one of the biggest branch networks in the UK, alongside local banking options like our Community Bankers, the nearby Post Office, PayPoint, plus our leading apps and 24/7 messaging service, we offer our customers more choice and convenience than ever before."

Branches of Lloyds Bank in Bilston town centre, Walsall and Wolverhampton remain open.

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service which covers councils and other public service organisations.

Follow BBC Wolverhampton & Black Country on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.