The new banking hub in Sidmouth is now open, located right at the heart of town in the former Joules store on New Street!
It's important residents can speak to someone from their bank in-person, which is why I launched a local survey to send a clear message to the major high street banks that they should look to staff the banking hub.
It was clear from hundreds of residents and businesses in the Sid Valley who responded to my survey that face-to-face banking services are still crucial. The news of Lloyds planned closure as the last bank in town came as a bitter blow.
Following a dedicated campaign and a great team effort from all those involved in its delivery, it’s fantastic to see this much-needed service open to residents. I was chuffed to be asked to cut the ribbon on the new hub. As a Sidmouth resident, I’m really looking forward to being a regular customer.
Sidmouth’s Banking Hub, open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm, has two different things inside it.
Firstly, a counter – operated by staff from the Post Office – where customers from any bank can: pay in cash and cheques; withdraw cash; check their balance; pay utility bills; top up their gas and electricity; access change-giving services (for small businesses).
Secondly, an advice room – staffed by one bank a day – where customers of the bank available on the daily rota can get advice for things like mortgages, loans, and pensions. Sidmouth’s advice room rota is Monday (NatWest), Tuesday (HSBC), Wednesday (Santander), Thursday (Lloyds), Friday (Barclays).
If you have any comments or questions about Sidmouth’s Banking Hub, please do get in touch. I'm pushing for there to be a 24/7 ATM outside, too.
I’ll continue working to get banking services back in towns across our part of Devon.