Councillors call for a banking hub

Dronfield Town Councillors have called for action to restore face-to-face banking services in the town following Barclays' decision to close its Barclays Local facility at Dronfield Library from November.

While the Barclays Local did not handle cash, its closure marks the latest step in the long decline of in-person banking provision in Dronfield.

The town has no bank branches at all and no cash-accessible banking services other than the Post Office and one building society branch.

Many residents and businesses continue to rely on access to in-person banking, not only for cash withdrawals and deposits, but also for the opportunity to speak face-to-face with banking staff to resolve problems, seek advice or carry out more complex transactions.

The continual closure of local banks is making this increasingly difficult, particularly for older residents, small businesses and those who are less comfortable with digital banking.

At the November Town Council meeting, councillors unanimously supported a motion expressing disappointment the loss of another banking service and calling on LINK, Cash Access UK and the Post Office to consider Dronfield as a priority location for a banking hub.

Banking hubs are shared facilities run on behalf of the major banks. They provide essential counter services, such as cash withdrawals, deposits and cheque handling, as well as staffed days where representatives from different banks are available to meet customers.

Councillor Alex Dale said: "Lots of people have told me that Dronfield needs a banking hub and, as councillors, we totally agree. If Belper, Bakewell and Clay Cross have got them, why can't we have one? We've already been working to make the case for Dronfield and this motion is part of that process. We may need residents' and local business owners' support as this campaign develops, and we'll keep everyone posted when the time comes."