LOCAL MP Mike Amesbury is calling on the TSB to ditch plans to close its Frodsham branch next year, saying closure would represent ‘another hammer-blow to customers and the High Street’.
TSB recently announced the Main Street branch will shut its doors on June 22 next year.
Mr Amesbury, who lives in Frodsham, has emailed TSB chief executive Robin Bulloch imploring a change of heart.
The MP for Weaver Vale said: “I was disappointed to learn the Frodsham TSB branch in my hometown is scheduled to close next summer. The nearest alternative branch is Warrington, more than 10 miles away, or Liverpool, which is more than 16 miles away.
“This is bound to cause inconvenience for customers who use branch services, especially if they rely on public transport.”
Frodsham does have a post office and a Nationwide Building Society branch but the TSB is the last remaining bank branch in the small market town. Its closure would also mean the loss of another ATM facility.
Mike Amesbury
Mr Amesbury added: “Not everyone does online banking and I’m aware some older people prefer the personal service you receive in a local branch.
“But this is not just a generational issue. Losing valued face-to-face appointments and presence undermines customer service and will be keenly felt by many, particularly among local businesses.
“I’m asking TSB to revisit its closure decision as it would mean another hammer-blow to customers and the High Street
“I’ve heard Government ministers waxing lyrical about their intention to protect the bank branch networks. Well, this is the reality here in Frodsham. It’s just not true.”