Peterborough MP urges Barclays to review decision to close Millfield branch

Barclays has announced that it is planning to shut its branch in Lincoln Road, Millfield, on December 11 this year.

The bank says that counter transactions at the branch over the last two years have dropped by 30 per cent with 89 per cent of its customers using different ways to bank.

But the closure move has angered Peterborough MP Paul Bristow who says representatives of Barclays assured him at a meeting in on March 13 there were no plans for any branch closures.

Now the city MP has called on the bank to rethink the decision, which he says will have a severe impact on vulnerable residents as well as local businesses that reply on branch banking.

In a letter to the bank, Mr Bristow states: “I would urge you to reconsider this retrograde step and look proactively on how the branch can better serve the local community.

“The impact on vulnerable people living locally will be severe. Many of these people who need to access banking services often walk to access these services, and rely on in person services because they do not have access to technology (for a variety of reasons).

“Simply stating that there are two more branches “within three miles” is not a practical alternative, as it would mean a car or bus journey and practical inconvenience.

“Businesses along Lincoln Road and in other parts of Millfield rely on branch banking. The use of cash in this area is higher than in other parts of Peterborough, with many small businesses that are not part of national chains.

“These businesses would be disproportionately impacted by a branch closure of this nature, with many forced to go to considerable expense or inconvenience to adjust to different practices.

He adds: “A high street brand like Barclays can make or break a high street, because of the connections with the local community and businesses that are built up over a long period of time.

“These connections and relationships are all at risk if the branch closes.”

Referring to his meeting with bank officials, Mr Bristow adds: “I met with Barclays representatives on Friday, March 13 and specifically asked the question whether any branch closures were planned.

“I was told there were no plans for any branch closures and was reassured that although their nature was changing branches remained front and centre of Barclays future business.

“I am disappointed this closure is being rushed through at this time.

“The coronavirus pandemic has had a significant impact on businesses and individuals.

“There will be some changes to the way we do things going forward, but it is far too early to assess any long-term impact these changes will have on branch banking.

“Closing the branch at a time of such uncertainty, when businesses and individuals need so much support, is unsympathetic to their needs.

“I do believe there can be a really positive future for the branch as part of Lincoln Road, offering new and expanded services alongside its support for those transactions that local residents and businesses both need and deserve.

Once again, I urge you to reconsider this backwards step.”

A spokeswoman for Barclays said: ““The decision to close a branch is never an easy one.

“However, customers are increasingly using alternatives to branches to do their banking.

“As a result, we are seeing a sustained fall in branch visits across the UK.

“This is reflected at the 395 Lincoln Road, Millfield, branch where there has been a 30 per cent reduction in counter transactions in the two years to March 2020.

“In addition, 89 per cent of our customers at the branch are also using different ways to bank.

“We will work with our customers and provide alternative options to ensure they can continue to manage their money and receive financial expertise when required.”

She said the closure would not result in any job losses.