NatWest Confirms 32 Additional Branch Closures in Major High Street Retreat
A major UK high street bank has announced a significant reduction in its physical network, with 32 more branches set to close across the country. This decision follows an earlier announcement of seven closures this year, marking a substantial escalation in the bank's restructuring efforts.
Widespread Impact from Hove to Halifax
The closures will affect communities nationwide, with multiple locations facing the axe. Manchester will lose two branches, while London's presence will diminish further with four planned closures in areas including Fulham Broadway, Spitalfields, Sydenham, Tooting, and the West End. Other affected towns and cities range from Hove in the south to Halifax in the north, demonstrating the broad geographic reach of this decision.
Bank Cites Changing Customer Behaviour
NatWest has emphasised that this "difficult decision" reflects evolving customer preferences, as more people move towards digital banking services. A spokesperson stated: "How our customers choose to bank with us is changing, and our network and services need to reflect customer demand." The bank highlighted its commitment to maintaining access through alternative means, including mobile branches, Community Banking Hubs, Post Office partnerships, and its extensive free-to-use ATM network.
The full list of affected branches includes:
- Aldershot
- Ashford (Middlesex)
- Barnet
- Boston
- Brentwood
- Eastcote
- Godalming
- Grays
- Halifax
- Harlow
- Hartlepool
- Hemel Hempstead
- Herne Bay
- Hornchurch
- Hove
- Kirkby Lonsdale
- London – Fulham Broadway
- London – Spitalfields
- London – Sydenham
- London – Tooting
- London – West End
- Loughton – Old Station Road – Sainsburys
- Manchester – Cheetham Hill
- Manchester – Chorlton
- Orpington
- Palmers Green
- Pontefract
- Sheffield – Attercliffe – Attercliffe Road
- South Shields
- Southall
- Waltham Cross
- Welwyn Garden City
Concerns for Vulnerable Customers
This move represents a blow to many customers who prefer face-to-face banking interactions, particularly elderly and vulnerable individuals who may struggle with digital alternatives. While NatWest asserts it will "minimise the impact" on customers and colleagues, the reduction in physical locations raises questions about accessibility for those less comfortable with online transactions.
Broader Banking Sector Trend
NatWest's announcement aligns with a wider trend across the UK banking sector. Santander recently revealed plans to close 44 branches this year, while Lloyds Banking Group will shutter 77 locations. These decisions reflect an industry-wide shift as banks adapt to changing consumer behaviour and seek to reduce operational costs.
The NatWest Group, which includes Royal Bank of Scotland and serves over 20 million customers, continues to invest in its remaining branch network. The bank has announced increased investment in branches over the next three years, suggesting a strategic reallocation rather than complete abandonment of physical banking.
This development follows recent leadership changes at competitor HSBC, which appointed former NatWest executive David Lindberg as its new UK boss. Such appointments indicate ongoing transformation within the banking industry as institutions navigate the digital transition while maintaining customer service standards.
