News that Aldeburgh’s only bank is to close its doors early next year has met with a great deal of consternation and concern.
We asked readers to answer three questions about their use of local banks.
148 voters took part in the poll.
Of those taking part 81% said they were concerned about local bank closures with 84% of voters claiming they used their local bank.
Nearly a third said they used their bank every week with a further 23% saying that they used it every few weeks.
We also asked users on social media what they thought about the changes. Many were very worried about the implications of the change.
John Chap said: “Will make life that bit more difficult now particularly for the older generations living in Aldeburgh.”
H added: “I often use this branch so another blow for a high street.”
Katie Bizzey added: “Terrible news! My elderly mother relies on this bank totally. Very sad times.”
Many agreed with concerns that internet banking was not accessible for everyone in the town.
Susie Hammond said: “This is a sad state of affairs, I’ve already lost the use of the Barclays in Saxmundham where I worked the bank around my weekly shop and using the shops in the high street too!
“I believe a lot of people still want the service of a walk in bank, I have terrible internet connection and can not access online banking, even if I did I don’t want to!
“I have also talked with many older people who do not drive or have the internet, and they wish for the same service too, especially in the countryside with awful bus services and transport problems.”
Tommy Markham said: “I dislike internet banking. Prefer walking into a bank. Soon the only banks available will be in Lowestoft or Ipswich.”
Others believed that there could be positives to the change.
Sylvia Hawes said:”I do feel for the people of Aldeburgh who do not drive and would find buses difficult. But as I see it Barclays have chosen to keep Leiston as it is central between Saxmundham and Aldeburgh there is car parking and the bus stop is just a few steps away.
“Could be good for Leiston bringing more people to the town.”
John Ridgley suggested there could be a solution for residents in Aldeburgh. He said: “On my travels, I see that Lloyds have a mobile bank in Bungay, every Monday.
“Mobile banking may be the answer. Something to consider, perhaps?”
Barclays said on Monday that it had not taken the decision lightly and would be helping customers to look through alternatives to branch banking.
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