Barclays bank announces closure of Lymington and Ringwood branches

LYMINGTON'S mayor has described the closure of Barclays bank in the town as “disappointing” and warned elderly residents will suffer.

The banking giant announced it is shutting the Lymington and Ringwood branches, arguing that most people bank online now.

But Cllr James Hoare said: “The closure of Barclays Bank in Lymington is disappointing as many of our older residents prefer to visit their branch.

“These customers have concerns about online banking and can find accessing the internet challenging.

"I hope very much that Barclays will give extra assistance to these residents in managing their affairs. Online banking is much safer and simpler than it used to be.”

His concerns were echoed by fellow Lymington Cllr Barry Dunning who commented: “Another one bites the dust!”

He added: “Obviously it's very disappointing. However, I can understand them moving – it's the old story: if you don't use it, you lose it.

"The use of the counter has gone down by about 60% over a few years. I think it's a case of finding out about alternatives.

"I think initially it will be bad for people to get used to it but once you have got used to it, you will find alternative routes.

"It's just another building that will become a coffee shop, probably. I hope a business takes it over and something interesting will be put in."

Lymington customer Sebastian Chamberlain, who is in his 90s, said he had been very “upset” to receive news of the closure.

He said: “They say that they will still be part of the community and that they will be consulting the MP, councillors and the like.

"How cynical can they get? They cannot care less for our community.”

Mr Chamberlain said he struggled to use online banking and would be forced to drive to Bournemouth to bank at Barclays.

In an email to customers in Ringwood, Barclays claimed that just 22 customers regularly used the branch and that 88% did their banking online.

But one furious customer said: “It’s an absolute joke. They say less and less people are visiting the branches.

“Every time I go into the Ringwood branch there is always without exception a long queue, and very few staff.”

Another said: “Not everyone does online banking and if you have problems you can actually go in and speak to someone .”

A spokesperson for Barclays said: "Our customers’ behaviour has changed significantly in recent years, with the majority now choosing online banking.

"This is reflected at Lymington and Ringwood branches, and as we adapt, we are finding new ways to support our customers by maintaining our community presence with options for customers who still require in-person support.”

“In Lymington and Ringwood we plan to open a Barclays Local – a pop-up cashless banking site where customers can meet a colleague face-to-face for banking support, as they would in a branch and without the need to travel.

"We are currently working with the local community to identify a suitable location and will announce details once confirmed.”