Updated: Barclay’s to close banking hub in Horncastle library
A banking hub that was set up in Horncastle library when the Barclay’s Bank branch closed in the town is due to close this month.
The Barclays Local banking hub was opened after the Horncastle branch of the bank closed in October 2022.
Customers could visit the hub, based in the town library, on Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays to discuss banking business with an adviser which they felt they needed to do in person, as long as it did not involve cash transactions.
However Barclays contacted customers two months ago to says it would be closing the hub on Friday November 28, claiming a lack of customers using the service, although according to anecdotal accounts, the service had been popular among elderly and vulnerable residents who may find it difficult to conduct their banking online or over the phone.
Some commented on social media that they often had to queue when they visited.
Barclays have stated that people can use their online services and many transactions can also be carried out via the Post Office.
There remains a Lloyds Bank branch in the town. The nearest Barclay’s branch will be in Lincoln or Skegness.
Mayor of Horncastle, Coun Mike Beecham said he would be “sad” to see the Barclays hub go, but added: “Horncastle needs a banking hub. I don’t know what the future holds for our Lloyds branch – theoretically we could get by with one bank, but all the other banks need to have some presence here and I would like a hub where all the banks take turns to be available for customers.”
Banking Hubs, organised by Cash Access UK and staffed by the Post Office, have already opened in Mablethorpe and Market Rasen to enable customers to continue to have access to cash banking services.
Coun Beecham accepted it would be a business decision by Barclay’s, but said: “We do need some way where people can go in and talk to a representative of their bank. I know the post office offer a service but it is not the same.”
He had discussed the matter with County Councillor Philip Roberts, who also uses the library for his surgeries
Barclay’s have been approached for further comment.