Journalism & News from Bournemouth University

Four high streets banks closing in Dorset

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Photograph of Winton High Street
Winton High Street - Credit to Gemma Thorne

Four Dorset high street banks set to close in another major blow to local communities

The closures announced on 29th January affect branches of major banks in several towns, leaving residents with fewer in-person banking options.

The closures are part of a wider trend seen across the UK, Halifax in Winton High Street and Lloyds in Victoria Road, Ferndown, where banks continue to reduce their physical presence as customers increasingly shift towards online banking.

While the move is expected to save operational costs for the banks, it has sparked concern among locals, especially the elderly and those without easy access to digital banking services.

Community leaders have expressed their frustration, warning that the closures could make everyday banking more difficult for vulnerable groups and reduce foot traffic to town centres, further hurting local economies already impacted by the pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis.

Customers are now urged to use alternative branches, ATMs, or online services. However, many are questioning whether this trend signals the end of traditional high-street banking as we know it.