Natwest bank branches to close in Grange-over-Sands and Ambleside

The decision by Natwest to close local bank branches "lets customers down" and leaves many local residents facing long journeys to access bank services, according to local MP Tim Farron.

Natwest has decided to close its branches in Grange-over-Sands and Ambleside, as part of plans to close 128 of its branches across the country this year. The bank said there has been a "dramatic shift" in the way customers choose to bank, with many shifting to mobile and online banking.

The Ambleside branch is due to close on the 9th October 2017 and the Grange Over Sands branch on 3rd October 2017.

Tim met with a senior Natwest official earlier this week to discuss the changes and press them to reconsider given the nature of the local population.

Tim said: "Whilst a general trend towards online banking is undeniable, Natwest must consider the specific communities that are served by the branches in Ambleside and Grange-over-Sands. There is a significant proportion of elderly residents, many of whom don't even own a smartphone or have access to the internet. Simply switching to online and mobile banking is not an option, and could put their account security at risk if they are not comfortable using the technology. This decision lets customers down and could leave vulnerable elderly residents without access to vital bank services."