Sir Gavin Williamson, MP for South Staffordshire, has welcomed Barclays maintaining a face-to-face presence in Codsall and Bilbrook after a campaign to keep their local bank open.
Barclays announced plans in July to close their Bilbrook branch by Friday 14th October, citing changing banking habits and reduced counter transactions as the reasons for the proposed closure.
Following this, Sir Gavin began a survey campaign alongside Codsall and Bilbrook residents to demonstrate the scale of local support for the branch. This was done amid concerns over the loss of face-to-face services for elderly and vulnerable people who especially value being able to speak to an advisor while manging their financial affairs.
Almost 600 residents responded to the survey, with over 99% stating that they wanted the Bilbrook branch to remain open and to have easy access to branch advisors.
Barclays has now announced plans to maintain a presence in the Codsall Community Hub at the district council offices from 18th October onwards. Barclays staff will be at the community hub twice a week on Tuesdays from 9am till 5pm and Thursdays from 9am till 2pm.
Sir Gavin said: “I am thrilled that Barclays has listened to Codsall and Bilbrook residents and will be continuing to provide face-to-face banking services in the community hub. It is clear from the results of my survey just how important access to in-person banking is to the community, especially for those who are elderly or vulnerable, and I am glad Barclays are continuing to provide this vital service.”