THE closure of a major bank in Rhos on Sea has been slammed as “a real blow” for residents.
The HSBC on Rhos Road will close on December 2, with the nearest branches in Llandudno or Colwyn Bay.
A spokesman for the bank blamed an increase in Internet banking and a significant fall in customer usage for the closure, but confirmed opening hours in Llandudno would be extended to include Saturdays to cope with additional customer demand.
He said: “We are looking to leave an ATM in the town and we are in the process of trying to find an appropriate location for the cash machine.The two members of staff who man the branch will transfer to our other local branches.”
Assembly Member Darren Millar the closure would be a real blow for residents.
He said: “Many residents in Rhos on Sea are elderly and rely on their local branch to access services. Now they will have to travel to Llandudno or Colwyn Bay.
“We have already seen the closure of post offices, banks and telephone boxes across North Wales over the past couple of years - the HSBC’s decision is yet another example of the erosion of essential public services in our area. I have demanded an emergency meeting with HSBC’s senior management and will be urging them to reconsider.”
Local councillors have also been disappointed by the news.
Cllr Phil Edwards said: “We are trying our level best to bring investment into the area to bring tourists into the area and to support local businesses, whilst the likes of the HSBC are pulling the mat from under us. It is extremely disappointing.”