THE closure of a bank branch in Malvern has been labelled “appalling”.

Harriett Baldwin, MP for West Worcestershire, has shared her thoughts following the announcement that Halifax on Church Street is set to close by the end of the year.

The decision comes as the firm continues moving towards digital banking.

Mrs Baldwin said: “I am appalled but not surprised to hear the Lloyds and Halifax bank branch network is being further reduced in my constituency.

"As chair of the Treasury Select Committee I have spoken out about how banks are not behaving at their best for their customers.”

The Malvern Halifax branch will close on November 6, 2023.

According to Halifax, 72 per cent of the branch’s customers already user other ways of banking, such as over the phone or internet banking.

Branch transactions fell more than 65 per cent between 2017 and 2022.

A spokesperson said: “Visits to our Malvern branch have fallen over recent years, as many customers now choose to bank digitally.

“When the branch closes in November, customers can use the local Post Office for everyday banking which is a short walk away, access cash at the nearby free-to-use ATMs, alongside other ways to bank such as over the phone and online.“

The nearest free-to-use ATM is a short walk away (0.08 miles), and there are nine free-to-use ATMs within one mile of the closing branch. 

After the branch closes a Community Banker will begin to visit the area, offering face to face support for “as long as the community needs it”. 

Halifax will discuss with local communities which locations would be appropriate for our Community Banker to set up in, and on which days.