Barclays to close Middleton branch in August

Photo: Google, DigitalGlobe

Barclays Bank, Middleton

The Middleton branch of Barclays will close on 5 August due to a fall in branch visits.

Barclays says there has been a 13% reduction in counter transactions at the Middleton branch in the two years to March 2020.

It adds that 87% of customers also use “different ways to bank” and notes that 202 regular customers use this branch “exclusively for banking” without using other options, such as the Barclays app, telephone banking, online or video banking.

A Barclays spokesperson said: “The decision to close a branch is never an easy one. However, customers are increasingly using alternatives to branches to do their banking. As a result, we are seeing a sustained fall in branch visits across the UK.

“This is reflected at Middleton branch where there has been a 13 per cent reduction in counter transactions in the two years to March 2020. In addition, 87 per cent of our customers at the branch are also using different ways to bank.

“We will work with our customers and provide alternative options to ensure they can continue to manage their money and receive financial expertise when required.”

The closest Barclays branches to Middleton residents after the closure will be the branches in Heywood and Oldham. The nearest free to use ATM is found 50 yards away on Long Street.

Everyday transactions can be completed at any Post Office with the closest located at Middleton Shopping Centre. Barclays will also be offering virtual ‘tea and teach’ sessions for customers wishing to explore digital banking and other alternatives to branch-based banking.