Santander to close 95 UK branches including one in Flintshire

Santander has announced plans to close 95 of its 444 branches across the UK, including its Holywell branch on High Street.

The bank cites a shift towards digital banking as the reason for the closures, with a reported 63% increase in online transactions since 2019 and a 61% decline in branch-based financial transactions over the same period.

The Holywell branch is one of four Santander locations set to close in North Wales, alongside branches in Caernarfon, Holyhead, and Colwyn Bay.

The Holywell branch will close on 13, August 2025.

Santander states that it will provide alternative banking support through a network of “Community Bankers” and local Banking Hubs.

A Santander spokesperson said, “Closing a branch is always a very difficult decision, and we spend a great deal of time assessing where and when we do this and how to minimise the impact it may have on our customers.”

The bank has also highlighted that all affected branches are within one mile of a Post Office, where customers can continue to carry out everyday banking transactions.

Additionally, Santander customers will be able to use digital, telephone, and mobile banking services, with the bank continuing to invest in its mobile app and chat services.

The closures come as Santander shifts towards a new branch model that includes counter-free branches, reduced-hours locations, and “Work Cafés”—spaces designed for banking, co-working, and events.

While the bank says 93% of the UK population will remain within 10 miles of a branch, the move will negatively impact elderly and vulnerable customers who rely on in-person services.

Santander has confirmed that around 750 jobs are at risk due to the closures, though affected staff will be offered support, including potential redeployment within the bank.