Nat West set to shut Deeside branch later this year

Banking giant NatWest has announced plans to shut down its Deeside branch later this year.

In a move that reflects the changing face of banking, NatWest has detailed its decision to close its Deeside branch, citing shifts in customer banking behaviour as the primary reason.

The branch on Shotton high street is scheduled for closure on November 9.

Before making such decisions, Nat West says it evaluates a range of factors, emphasising that such closures are ‘never taken lightly.’

Considerations include the frequency of branch usage, the type of transactions, customer banking preferences, and the closeness to other banking services such as cash machines and Post Offices.

Between January 2019 and January 2023, NatWest noted a 55% decrease in counter transactions for personal customers at its Deeside branch.

Moreover, in 2022, 64% of personal customers using the branch were also using online banking or mobile apps, indicating the growing trend towards digital adoption among its customers.

While the bank did not disclose an exact number of affected customers, it revealed that in 2022, the branch on Shotton high street was regularly frequented by only nine personal customers and 136 business customers.

[Source: Nat West]

Once the Shotton branch is closed, the nearest NatWest bank will be in Mold town centre.

For business customers, NatWest stated, “You can use any of our NatWest branches, manage your accounts and payments 24/7 with Bankline or Online Banking. In addition to our digital offerings, we have various cash solutions to meet your needs.”

NatWest has emphasised that many everyday banking tasks can be carried out at local Post Offices.

Recognising the significant impact of such a decision on the local community, NatWest has committed to maintaining an open dialogue with its customers.

Ahead of the branch closure, NatWest plans to host a “Supporting you through our Branch Closure” event.

This event aims to educate customers on identifying the appropriate local banking services.

Following the closure, the bank intends to establish a community pop-up site where a local NatWest representative will be available for face-to-face discussions regarding everyday banking needs.

This includes support in setting up and using digital services, advice on making cash-based transactions at the local Post Office, and guidance on protecting oneself from fraud and scams.

The bank is inviting queries and providing support through its dedicated Customer Support Specialists.

Details of their engagement, including a summary of responses and any complaints, will be available on the bank’s website by 26th October 2023.

Caroline Abrahams, charity director at Age UK, said the ongoing branch closures were making life ‘really difficult’ for elderly people who ‘don’t want or can’t bank online’.

“Closing a branch saves a bank money, but it’s not what many older people want or need, having been quite content with face-to-face banking throughout their lives,” she added.

Information on community pop-up sites can be found by visiting natwest.com/bankingnearme.

[Main Image: Google Streetview]