Lloyds Bank announces plans to close Holyhead branch as MS left ‘hugely disappointed’

Lloyds Bank has announced plans to close its branch in Holyhead after claiming customers are using it less.

The branch on Boston Street in the town is due to shut its doors on January 23, 2023 after which customers will have to travel to Llangefni to access facilities in-person.

Lloyds confirmed last week it would be closing 66 branches across the UK, but was accused of trying to bury bad news after failing to make a formal announcement.

In relation to the Holyhead branch closure, it said: “Like many other high street businesses, we’ve seen people using our branches less frequently in recent years as more customers choose to do most of their everyday banking online.

“We’re responding to the way our customers use our branches.

“We’ll continue to invest in our branch network, but we have to make sure our branches are where customers need and use them most.

“As a result, we’ve made the difficult decision to close this branch because customers are using it less often.

“In addition the majority of customers are also using alternative ways to bank.”

Lloyds has advised customers they can use any branches, including the nearest alternative in Llangefni.

For a short period of time after the branch closes, a community banker will be on hand to visit the area to offer support and guidance.

However, Ynys Môn MS Rhun ap Iorwerth has hit out at the move.

He said: “I’m hugely disappointed that Holyhead faces yet another blow with another bank closure. We’ve seen too many banks turn their backs on Anglesey over the years.

“I will be arranging to meet with Lloyds to discuss further, and to emphasise the strength of feeling following this announcement – surely there are more innovative ways of ensuring that banks remain open in our communities.

“I’ve called on them to work together in the past to bring their services under one roof, for example. Having face to face banking interaction is crucial for many.

“We’re told that a community banker will be visiting the area for ‘a short period of time after the branch closes’ to offer support and guidance.

“But my question is why will this service only be available for a short period of time? I’m afraid it’s not much of a consolation.

“It’s a matter that I’ve raised time and time again, big banks are simply turning their backs on rural communities such as Ynys Môn.

“We cannot rely on them, and I’m very supportive of the work being done to develop a new Banc Cambria initiative.”