Stuart Anderson MP Campaigns for Access to Cash As Bank Branches Issue Closure Notices
Stuart Anderson MP has called on the Chancellor to “protect and enhance” access to cash in rural areas. It follows the announcement of upcoming bank closures affecting South Shropshire.
On 29th January 2025, Stuart was notified that Lloyds Banking Group intends to close their branches in Ludlow and Bridgnorth from 20th May 2025. The Bridgnorth branch had 720 monthly customers, while the Ludlow branch had 638 monthly customers.
Overall, Lloyds is planning to close a further 136 of its high street branches. The lender will axe 61 Lloyds, 61 Halifax and 14 Bank of Scotland sites between May this year and March 2026.
In a letter to Stuart, Lloyds Bank said:
"Many customers now choose to bank through their mobile app or online, as a result visits to our branch have fallen. The number of transactions by our personal customers using this branch have decreased by 52% in the Ludlow branch and 50% in the Bridgnorth over the last five years. When the branch closes, customers can continue to manage their money on our mobile app, online, by calling us, or in person at the local Post Office or by visiting our Community Banker."
In a letter to clients, Lloyds confirmed they will update their website with details of a 'Community Banker' they will set up. They add the service will be reviewed to ensure it "can continue to be available for as long as needed".
Lloyds' letter signposts the Hereford branch as an alternative for Ludlow customers - although it is almost 23 miles away. It also signposts Bridgnorth residents to the Tettenhall branch in Wolverhampton, which is 11.55 miles away.
Since the announcement, many constituents have contacted Stuart to explain the impact the closures will have on them. This includes representatives from local charities and places of worship who use the bank.
Analysis shared with Stuart by Lloyds confirmed that 67% of personal customers at the Bridgnorth branch are aged 55 or above. Meanwhile, this figure stands at 66% for personal customers at the Ludlow branch.
Stuart has now written to the Executive Director and Group Chief Executive of Lloyds Banking Group, Mr Charlie Nunn, to appeal the changes.
Stuart has also called on the Chancellor to safeguard banking services in rural areas. He said the government must secure continued access to cash and wider banking services - including by supporting the delivery of banking hubs in rural areas.
It follows warnings by the Countryside Alliance that bank closures in rural areas, especially in the absence of reliable mobile or broadband connectivity, can present particularly serious challenges.
Stuart Anderson MP said:
“Access to cash and in-person banking services are vital to daily life for residents in South Shropshire. So, I am concerned that Lloyds plans to close its branches in Ludlow and Bridgnorth in May. The closure of 136 branches is a major blow for our high streets. It will affect local charities, churches, and communities who rely on their services - with two thirds of customers aged 55 or above at both local branches. I have written to Lloyds Bank CEO to request that this decision is reconsidered and called on the Chancellor to safeguard banking services in rural areas like ours."
