Lib Dems call on Halifax to re-think branch closure plans

Liberal Democrat councillor for Westfield ward, Andrew Waller, has called on Halifax to re-think plans to close their Acomb branch in January 2025.

Halifax have justified the proposed closure by stating that most customers are now using a mobile app, internet banking or phone banking, which means they are using branches, including the Acomb branch, much less. The statement issued by Halifax goes on to say that a ‘Banking Hub’ is ‘planned for this area’ operated by the Post Office which will be open Monday to Friday and at which customers of all major banks and building societies can do their everyday banking tasks.

Halifax did not inform local ward councillors in advance of their media release announcing the closure.

Cllr Andrew Waller commented:

“The announcement from Halifax is a very unwelcome surprise for local residents and businesses and of course for the branch staff who provide a valuable service. I am calling on Halifax to think again.

“This is the last bank branch left in west York, serving not just Acomb residents but those in the surrounding areas.  Many residents cannot easily get into the city centre and back to do their banking and have no access to digital services – for these residents, having access to local banking services is essential.

“If the closure does go ahead, Acomb is fortunate to have a fantastic Post Office – Taylors of Acomb – and a branch of the Leeds Building Society. I will be in touch with them over the coming weeks to discuss how we can make sure that as many people as possible know about the services they offer.

“The suggestion of a ‘Banking Hub’ being established is interesting, but very little detail is provided and many questions remain unanswered. For example, how will this Hub complement the services already provided by the Post Office and the Leeds Building Society? Will it be similar to other Banking Hubs such as the one in Knaresborough that was opened last year?”

Residents can sign the petition to save the Acomb branch of Halifax at https://bit.ly/halifaxacomb