Customers' fears that Harrogate 'will need a banking hub' eased by Lloyds notification

The announcement of the forthcoming closure of Lloyds Bank’s only Harrogate branch may have triggered fears that the town would soon need its own ‘hub’ to maintain basic banking services but there’s relief today for customers.

There was shock at the news that Lloyds branch at 8-11 Cambridge Crescent was to close permanently on November 19 as part of a nationwide Lloyds Banking Group restructuring programme which will see a total of 31 Lloyds Banks and 48 Halifax branches close their doors.

But the banking giant is advising customers that they can use the Halifax branch on Oxford Street, a minute’s walk away, for everyday personal banking, as they would use Lloyds.

A Lloyds Banking Group spokesperson said: “With access to one of the biggest branch networks in the UK, customers can now use any of our Lloyds or Halifax branches, including the nearby Halifax branch.

“Alongside other local banking options like our Community Bankers, the nearby Post Office, PayPoint, plus our leading apps and 24/7 messaging service, we offer our customers more choice and convenience than ever before.”

Lloyds Bank has also said that staff at the branch at Cambridge Crescent will be offered a role at another branch or another part of its business.

The Knaresborough Banking Hub was launched in November 2023 after the closure of the town’s last bank branch in March 2021.

Located at Kirkgate, it offers counter services operated by the Post Office alongside a rotating Community Banker service from the major high street banks.