Councillors raise concerns at Shipley branch of Halifax due to close this summer
The Shipley branch of Halifax – based in Market Square – is due to close its doors on June 9.
ANOTHER town centre bank will shut this Summer, with one Councillor describing the decision as “the loss of an essential service.”
The Shipley branch of Halifax – based in Market Square – is due to close its doors on June 9.
It is the latest in a series of banks in Shipley to close in recent years, with TSB closing in 2019, Barclays closing in 2021 and Natwest closing in 2023.
Councillor Anna Watson (Green, Shipley) fears the closure will “weaken the town centre and leave some residents behind.”
Announcing the closure, a Halifax spokesperson said: “Customers want the freedom to bank in the way that works for them and we offer more choice and ways to manage money than ever before.
“In addition to our app, customers can use the local Post Office or walk into any Halifax or Lloyds to manage their money and can also deposit cash at PayPoint locations.
“We’re giving our customers the flexibility to bank wherever and whenever they need us.
“We’re contacting customers to let them know about the alternate local banking services available.”
The Halifax branch is opposite the town’s newly renovated Market Square, which was completed in September.
The changes have seen the previous fixed market stalls removed to create a more open space.
Large canopies have been installed in the centre of the square, and raised planters and “rain gardens” have been created, bringing more greenery to the area.
Work to re-open public toilets in the Market Square is also nearing completion.
The work was funded by Shipley Towns Fund.
After the announcement of Halifax’s closure, Cllr Watson said: “I’m deeply disappointed to see another bank branch closing in our town centre.
“For many residents particularly older people, small business owners and those who rely on face-to-face support this isn’t just an inconvenience, it’s the loss of an essential service.
“Banks are a vital part of a thriving high street. They bring footfall to surrounding shops and give people confidence that they can access in-person advice locally.
“Without that, we risk further weakening our town centre and leaving some residents behind.
“I will now be speaking to others to press for a dedicated banking hub in the town, so that people can continue to access everyday banking services close to home.
“Our community deserves practical solutions that protect both local people and our high street.”