NatWest and Halifax have announced the closure of 39 bank branches in September, impacting customers. NatWest will shut down 26 branches, while Halifax will close 13 branches. The move is part of a trend where many high street banks are reducing branch numbers due to the increasing use of online banking.
Concerns have been raised by charities that vulnerable individuals may face challenges accessing essential banking services as a result. Data from Which? reveals that 6,443 bank branches have closed since January 2015, averaging 53 closures per month.
In 2025, a total of 432 bank closures are expected, with NatWest, Halifax, Santander, Lloyds, Bank of Scotland, TSB, and Barclays among the institutions closing branches. Looking ahead to 2026, 22 bank branches are set to close, with Lloyds, Halifax, and Bank of Scotland being the most affected.
Customers facing branch closures can still perform basic cash and counter services at Post Offices nearby. Some banks are also offering pop-up branches or vans, with schedules available online for convenience.
NatWest highlighted that the majority of their customers now prefer digital banking for daily transactions, while valuing in-person assistance for more complex matters. Lloyds Banking Group emphasized the availability of apps and various banking channels, including branches and the Post Office, to provide flexibility to customers.
As the banking industry shifts towards digital services, both NatWest and Lloyds Banking Group are adapting to meet changing customer needs and expectations.
