Barclays delays bank closure in Main Street, Leiston, while new hub is set up

The closure of a bank in a Suffolk town has been postponed to allow more time for a new hub to be set up.

In January, Barclays announced that its site in Main Street, Leiston, would close due to a significant drop in footfall.

The branch was due to shut on Friday but that has now been delayed.

In an online statement, the company said: “We’re staying open for now.

“We were due to close this branch on Friday, May 17, but will now be keeping it open for a while longer.”

In February, more than 100 residents rallied outside the bank after a petition protesting the closure gained nearly 700 signatures.

It was launched by Therese Coffey, MP for Suffolk Costal, and supported by Julia Ewart, Liberal Democrat MP.

After months of campaigning, LINK has confirmed Leiston residents will retain access to banking services.

The new banking hub will consist of a counter operated by Post Office employees.

Customers will be able to deposit and withdraw cash, pay bills and carry out transactions. Also included will be a private space where customers can speak with staff about more complicated issues.

Last month, a spokesman for LINK said the matter of setting up the banking hub was now in the hands of Cash Access, which will decide on a location.

The process of launching them takes about 12 months, he added.

While LINK is being set up, Barclays will continue to operate in the town.

A new closure date is yet to be confirmed.

After the branch closes, there will be no banks in the town and the nearest Barclays bank will be in Lowestoft and Ipswich – more than 20 miles away.