Erewash MP Adam Thompson has expressed deep concern over NatWest’s recently announced plan to permanently close their Long Eaton branch in May.
He is seeking a meeting with NatWest representatives to discuss what their plans mean for Long Eaton town centre and its residents.
Recent years have seen the departure of Santander, RBS, HSBC, and Barclays from the town. In Natwest’s own statement, they acknowledge that some 1 in 5 of their customers do not use online banking – this is a lot of people to leave without vital services, and the decision will have a particular impact on elderly residents.
The MP has expressed interest in establishing a banking hub in Long Eaton, similar to the successful model in Stapleford, to ensure local residents have access to essential financial services and has said that he is ready and willing to work with all relevant partners to achieve this.
Additionally, he voiced his support for the staff at NatWest’s Long Eaton branch, urging the bank to respect and provide robust support for its employees. He said: "I am deeply disappointed by NatWest’s decision to close their Long Eaton branch. Our town has lost far too many banks in recent years, and another empty listed building in the town centre is the last thing we need. While 80% of NatWest customers use online banking, one in five do not, leaving many, especially elderly residents, without reliable access to essential financial services."
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