Which? comments on new findings by the Welsh Assembly Committee on the impact of bank branch closures across Wales
Gareth Shaw, Which? Head of Money, said:
“People across Wales are being forced to travel long distances just to access vital banking services and cash due to the double blow of bank branch and cashpoint closures.
“The UK and Welsh government must explore all options for protecting cash – including legislation – for as long as this payment method is needed.”
Notes to editors
Which? revealed in June that 50 bank branches are closing every year. Survey results on Access to Banking by the Welsh Assembly’s Economy, Infrastructure and Skills Committee:
http://www.senedd.assembly.wales/documents/s90402/Survey%20Results.pdf
Stats include:
87% have been impacted by bank branch closures
36% reported that branch closures had increased their banking journey time by 30 minutes
40% said that regular access to a mobile bank branch would help
59% said that branch closures had led to empty/ deteriorating buildings on the high street
29% said it now takes up to an additional 60 minutes to access a bank branch
87% have been impacted by bank branch closures
36% reported that branch closures had increased their banking journey time by 30 minutes
40% said that regular access to a mobile bank branch would help
59% said that branch closures had led to empty/ deteriorating buildings on the high street
29% said it now takes up to an additional 60 minutes to access a bank branch
Statement