Member of Parliament for Hornchurch & Upminster, Julia Lopez, has met NatWest in Parliament following the bank’s announcement that it intends to close its Hornchurch branch.
NatWest told Mrs Lopez that changing customer habits are driving branch use down, and said around 70 per cent of customers who use the Hornchurch branch also bank online. NatWest stated that around 150 customers use the counter each week and that overall footfall is and has been falling.
NatWest also highlighted alternative provision in the area, including three Post Office branches within a mile of the Hornchurch branch and its Romford branch within three miles. They stressed that this will ensure many residents will be able to continue accessing many cash services.
During the meeting, Mrs Lopez raised concerns about the practical impact of travelling to Romford for those who currently depend on the Hornchurch branch, particularly older residents and people who are less confident banking online.
The bank confirmed that some staff are being relocated to the Romford branch ensuring continuity of service and familiarity for some customers at the current Hornchurch branch.
NatWest said the Hornchurch closure forms part of a wider programme of branch closures, and noted that 32 branches are closing nationally, including four in East London.
Mrs Lopez urged NatWest to take additional steps to support customers through the transition. She asked the bank to provide a temporary pop up service in Hornchurch to help residents adjust, similar to arrangements NatWest is planning elsewhere.
NatWest confirmed that it will run a pop up session on 14 April focused on helping customers understand how they can bank going forward.
Mrs Lopez also asked NatWest to support residents locally by attending community events, including an older people’s fair in the constituency, to provide face to face guidance for those most affected.
Mrs Lopez said:
“Many residents and small businesses still rely on face to face banking, and I remain concerned about the impact of losing a local branch in Hornchurch, particularly for those who find online banking difficult or who need in person support.
“I pressed NatWest on what practical help will be available, including for vulnerable customers, and on what more can be done locally to support people through the transition. I will continue to monitor the situation closely and will keep residents updated.”
The news comes following last year's campaign by Julia for a banking hub in the constituency. Although the closure of NatWest does not change the area's eligibility for a banking hub at the present time, Mrs Lopez will continue to assess access to cash locally.
