The UK bank made a pledge six years ago to keep open branches where it was the last bank in town but is now planning to shut 12 such sites at the end of November, reported the Mail on Sunday.
Graham Lindsay, a regional managing director for Lloyds TSB, told the paper: It is regrettable that these branches are not viable and are losing money, day in, day out. In a number of locations we’ve not been able to make the business case to upgrade the facilities.
Derek French, director of The Campaign for Community Banking Services, said: It will now be tempting for the others to follow suit and there will be a question mark hanging over many towns and villages where there is one bank.
Lloyds TSB said that all the branches that it is closing are close to Post Offices. Lloyds has a deal with the Post Office enabling customers to make deposits, withdraw cash and settle bills – although the service only applies to personal accounts.
