Banking giants HSBC are set to close their branch on Church Lane, Pudsey, it was revealed today.
Bosses said the branch will close on July 3 2020 as part of a national review which will see 27 branches axed.
“The plans reflect the long-term change in the way customers are banking alongside the bank’s need to ensure a sustainable branch network for the future,” a HSBC spokesman said.
He said the number of customers using HSBC branches has fallen by a third over the past five years and that nine in 10 of its customers now complete their transactions via the telephone, internet or smartphone and 99% of cash withdrawals are made at an ATM.
Stuart Haire, HSBC UK’s head of retail banking and wealth management, added:
“Retaining a sustainable branch network is extremely important to us and we need to ensure it is fit for the future.
“But, the way our customers bank with us has changed significantly over the last five to ten years, and that change is something we cannot ignore.”
HSBC say staff will be relocated to other branches.
The nearest branches to Pudsey are Horsforth and Leeds city centre.
Cllr Simon Seary, (Cons, Pudsey) said:
“I am extremely disappointed that HSBC is leaving Pudsey, and am concerned that customers of the bank who are less mobile will not have easy access to their accounts.
“I would ask the bank to reconsider this decision. In the meantime, though, there are other banks in the town and customers may wish to consider these.”
The Dispatch wrote about the branch reducing its opening hours back in 2017.
We moved our main bank accounts to HSBC last year, mainly because it was accessible and had parking outside the rear entrance. Think we’ll have to mice accounts again because I cannot park close to any banks in Leeds a city Centre and don’t find Horsforth accessible. Why don’t banks consider customers who need access to a branch with parking. Yes, much can be done on line but you can’t pay cheques in on line!!! Once again our needs are ignored!!