POLITICIANS claim the closure of a high-street bank is another “bitter blow” for Rhos-on-Sea.
Barclays Bank, Everard Road, will shut its doors on November 27 and residents will be re-directed to Colwyn Bay. Although there are other banking facilities in the villiage, politicians claim it will come as a great shock to the many loyal customers who have not been consulted. Last year the villiage suffered when two post offices were axed.
Darren Millar, AM for Clwyd West, argued banks should show greater social responsibilty for their communities. He said: “Closing branches is not a good way of demonstrating commitment to customers and communities, especially in Rhos-on-Sea which has a large elderly population, many of whom live with mobility problems.
“The closure of the bank will be another bitter blow to Rhos which lost two post offices last year,” he added.
The announcement comes just days after HSBC confirmed their intentions to close the Kinmel Bay branch on grounds of commercial sustainability.
David Jones, Clwyd West MP, argued the closure of the Rhos bank would have a huge impact on the community. He said: “I have arranged a meeting with senior bank officials next week, when I will be voicing my concerns and asking what proposals they have to ensure that my constituents, particularly the elderly and vulnerable, receive an acceptable banking and cash withdrawal service.”
Rhos-on-Sea councillor Phil Edwards, said residents were still getting over the loss of vital services following the Postwatch investigation. He said: “Closing the bank will have a big impact on the local community.
"There are almost 90 businesses in the town and they need banking services. It will be a real loss for the village. I am worried that if one business fails there is always the tendancy for others to follow suit.”