Frustration as Barclays announces closure of Southwold bank

Barclays, which is Southwold's last remaining bank, is set to close down on November 30.

Only 17 customers regularly use the High Street bank, Barclays said.

East Suffolk district councillor David Beavan, who represents Southwold, said he could "see this coming" after Barclays closed its branch in nearby Framlingham. 

"When they closed in Framlingham we were worried about it," he said.

Cllr David Beavan (Image: SARAH LUCY BROWN)

"They are saying they are still going to be in the town for face-to-face meetings, but not handing out cash, so that is good."

Mr Beavan said he is worried about the lack of cash machines in the area given how popular it is with tourists. 

"With a tourist town people need to get hold of cash so they can spend it with us," Mr Beavan added.

"In the past the cash machine has run out at weekends, so it is important we have a cash machine. 

"The thing that worries me is that for some people it is the only time they have a bit of social contact when they go to the bank."

Barclays is closing in Southwold (Image: Tim Goode/PA)

Chiara Saunders, chief executive of Citizens Advice East Suffolk, is pushing for better cash access across Suffolk after a number of banks recently closed their doors. 

The Southwold closure will become the latest Barclays bank to shut in the county.

Towns such as Beccles, Mildenhall and Newmarket have already seen banks in their high streets shut earlier this year. 

Barclays has said the reasoning behind the closure is due to lack of use. 

A spokesman for Barclays said of the closure: "We want to reassure you that we’re here to help. We’ll stay in your community and you’ll be able to talk to us in person.

"We’ll be available to help you with things like day-to-day banking queries and helping you manage your money, though there won’t be access to cash at this site."