Russell George AM is campaigning against NatWest’s disappointing decision to close its branch in Machynlleth.
Mr George is urging NatWest to reconsider its decision to close its Machynlleth branch and will urgently meet with NatWest bosses after news that the bank intends to close its branches in both Welshpool and Machynlleth on 27th September and 12th October respectively.
Mr George said:
“I will be calling for NatWest to urgently reconsider this decision and I am disappointed that they have decided to close their Machynlleth branch without any public consultation..
"The closure of bank branches is having a devastating effect on Montgomeryshire’s town centres and this is another big blow for Machynlleth, which has already lost its HSBC branch in recent times.
“While the decision to maintain a branch is ultimately a commercial decision for the banks, when I meet with NatWest bosses, I will be forcefully making the point that mobile or online banking doesn’t always replace permanent over the counter facilities, especially given the fact that the quality and reliability of mobile coverage and broadband speeds in parts of Montgomeryshire is still poor or non-existent.
“All the more reason for banks to work together to explore a new model of community banking which will see them share buildings and services to ensure they continue to have a presence on high streets throughout Montgomeryshire.
“I have been in contact with local councillor, Cllr. Mike Williams, to lend him my support and both of us have committed to working together and with others in the local community to fight against NatWest’s plans.
“Until an alternative solution is in place which is satisfactory to communities in Mid Wales, I urge NatWest to defer its decision to close its branches in Welshpool and Machynlleth.”