NatWest urged to reverse closing Peak District's only bank branch

Bakewell NatWest branch, in Water Street, is due to shut on 22 February 2024

A council leader has called on NatWest not to close the only banking branch in the Peak District.

The bank, in Water Street, Bakewell, Derbyshire, is due to shut on 22 February next year.

Derbyshire Dales District Council leader Steve Flitter said the move could leave people feeling "isolated and disconnected".

A NatWest spokesperson says most of its customers are shifting to online banking.

The bank says it has recognised "that digital solutions aren't right for everyone or every situation", and those struggling to access services would be supported.

It says face-to-face support is available through its partnership with the Post Office.

Addressing the concerns raised by the Derbyshire Dales MP Sarah Dines in Parliament, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said a new cash deposit machine would also be installed in the area.

'Lifelines and community hubs'

In a letter addressed to the chief executive at NatWest, Mr Flitter said the decision to close the branch was made with "no prior notification or consultation" with the council, MP or local customers.

He argued some older residents in the area could struggle to adapt or access online banking services, adding the branch "might be their only way of managing financial services".

He said digital services in rural areas were "inaccessible because of inadequate internet connectivity or lack of digital literacy".

Mr Flitter said local businesses also relied on branches, which provided a "sense of community and reassurance that digital platforms simply cannot replicate".

"They are lifelines and community hubs," he added.

"The withdrawal of the services is more than an inconvenience; it is a disruption that risks leaving our rural communities feeling isolated and disconnected.

"Access to cash machines in nearby locations does not replace the personal services offered to customers and businesses, which a physical branch can provide."

He concluded his letter by inviting bank bosses to meet the district council and discuss alternatives.

NatWest said since 2019, branch transactions had reduced by 60% and people using its digital services rose by 49%.