Welsh Labour Councillors are calling for urgent action to be taken to save the last bank in Llandovery, with fears the closure could have a detrimental impact on the town.
Local customers received correspondence this week from Barclay’s bank to inform them of their intention of closing the branch on the 7th June. The letter states that the decision to close the branch is never an easy one and pointed customers to alternative services in Llandeilo, Lampeter and Brecon.
Carmarthenshire’s Labour Leader stated, “We are terribly disappointed to hear the news that Barclays intent on closing the last bank in Llandovery and we are deeply concerned about the impact on the area.
“In the letter, customers are signposted to alternative cashpoints and we are concerned that Barclays also intends on removing its free-to-use cash machine. This would have a significant impact on residents ability to withdraw cash and therefore having an impact on local businesses.
“Urgent action is needed by Carmarthenshire Council and the Welsh Government to explore alternative arrangements that would retain banking services and staff in the area. One alternative suggestion would be to create shared space within the community for the bank. This would decrease the overheads on maintaining a presence in Llandovery, whilst ensure that local residents are still able to access bank services in their community.
“I will be writing to the First Minister and the Leader of Carmarthenshire Council to request that all possible avenues be explored.”
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