Farron calls for reversal of bank closure decision
South Lakeland MP Tim Farron is calling on HSBC to reverse its decision to close its branch in Windermere.
The bank has decided to close its Windermere branch on the 21st October, claiming it is not commercially viable for it to continue.
Tim has written to the bank asking them to reconsider, given the specific needs of the local population, particularly the high proportion of elderly people.
Tim said: "This decision by HSBC is a blow to local people. The branch serves a rural population with a high proportion of elderly residents. For elderly people who have never used a computer, moving to online banking is simply not an option.
"When HSBC's Ambleside branch closed in 2012, we were told customers would be moved to Windermere. Now they will be shunted all the way to Kendal. Elderly residents want to be able to nip in to their local branch, not spend hours on the bus simply to access their savings.
"Banks must consider the needs of the local community before cutting ties with the areas they are supposed to serve."