High Peaks MP Robert Largan recently visited a local Post Office branch to show support for the vital services which they provide.

NatWest have announced that they will be closing their Buxton branch on 14th February 2023 and their Glossop branch on 2nd March 2023.

Mr Largan has been in contact with NatWest to ask them to provide support for customers who are unable to switch to online banking, particularly older and more vulnerable customers.

NatWest confirmed to Mr Largan that all staff in the Glossop branch will be redeployed to other branches. Similarly, in Buxton, all but one member of staff would be relocated. 

The Post Office stands to play a vital role following the closures, as NatWest customers will be able to use local post offices to take out cash, check their balance or make a deposit.

All banking details including sort code, account number, standing orders and Direct Debits will remain the same and debit cards, paying-in books and cheque books can continue to be used.

Mr Largan visited Chapel-en-le-Frith Post Office on the afternoon of Friday 28th October and spoke with Tim Boothman, who runs multiple Post Offices in the area, to offer support and listen to his concerns.

Robert Largan, MP for High Peak, commented:

“The closure of the two NatWest branches is obviously very disappointing news, especially for the regular customers and branch staff. NatWest Glossop is my own local bank branch, so I am affected too.

“Sadly, this isn’t entirely unexpected. There has been a long running trend of high street bank branch closures.

“The Post Office stands to play a hugely important, people-facing role and it is right that we recognise this. I am grateful for the role they play and their admirable resolve in the circumstances.”