The decision to stop a mobile bank branch visiting a west Suffolk town has been branded 'disgraceful' by a community leader.
It has been revealed that Lloyds bank's mobile branch will no longer visit Mildenhall from May 2024, a decision the company said was due to customer's choosing to bank online or using their app, rather than visiting the mobile branch.
But mayor Ian Shipp, who represents Mildenhall Kingsway & Market on West Suffolk Council, has slammed the decision and said people should not be forced into banking online.
"I think it is a disgraceful decision by Lloyds bank and it's making question my use of them," he said.
"The closure of their high street bank in Mildenhall was bad enough, however they informed us our custom was invaluable and they would continue to serve Mildenhall with a new mobile unit.
"I am now questioning if this was always a temporary plan and the cancellation of the mobile unit was inevitable.
"Not everyone can, or does use online banking and I don’t think they should be forced into it," he added.
Councillor Andy Neal, who represents Mildenhall Queensway, said: "This really is simply a sign of the times but very disappointing at the same time.
"Yes, I understand most people bank online or on their phone but what about those that don’t.
"The fortnightly mobile banking service for Mildenhall went part way to compensate for the High Street branch closure.
"Lloyds customers in Mildenhall and villages that used the mobile service will now feel deserted and undervalued.
"Maintaining a presence and support even if only fortnightly helps develop the customer base of tomorrow for Lloyds.
"I feel this decision is short-sighted and budget driven on behalf of a company that promotes itself as being a caring brand," he added.
A Lloyds Bank spokesperson said: "As many customers now choose to bank online or through their mobile app, visits to our mobile bank branch have fallen significantly over recent years.
"The local Post Office offers everyday banking, with cash also available at close by free-to-use ATMs, alongside other ways to bank such as online, phone and mobile banking services."
They said 64% of their personal customers already use mobile, internet or phone banking, as well as other branches.
They added that in the lead up to the closure, mobile bank branch staff will be on-hand to offer support and guidance to customers and, after the bank stops visiting the area, there will be a Community Banker who will attend "to offer face to face support for as long as the community needs it."
The mobile bank branch currently visits Recreation Way in Mildenhall on Mondays between 10.30am and 12.45pm.
The former Lloyds bank in High Street announced its closure in 2021.
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