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Dismay as Barclays shuts parade branch
CUSTOMERS have expressed their dismay over a decision to close a Barclays bank branch in Weeke.
In a notice displayed at the front of the branch in Stoney Lane, customers were told Barclays is moving on Friday, October 24.
However, people in Weeke have said they feel angry about closing the much-used bank, and moving all its business into the main branch in Jewry Street in the city centre.
John Pattisson, 77, from Dean Lane, said: "The decision to close when Waitrose is about to open defies belief to me.
"To suggest that it is moving is nothing short of deception. They are closing it, not moving it."
Mr Pattisson also pointed out the branch covers many areas other than Weeke on the Stockbridge side of the city, and users will now have to go into the centre of Winchester to use the bank's services.
Andrew Saxton, 42, from Harestock Close, said: "It's an appalling inconvenience for all residents in Weeke, Harestock and other nearby parts of the city.
"We have already had the degradation of service with the Post Office in Littleton closing."
Cllr Eileen Berry, city councillor for St Barnabas, said: "It is wrong and I feel that the people are betrayed again.
"They will give the excuse of the current economic climate, but Barclays' profits have been huge.
"I don't understand their logic because this is a busy bank.
"I can only say in the strongest terms as a resident and a customer that I am disgusted with them."
Danny Reardon, head of community relations at Barclays, said its branch network was "continually assessed" on customer usage, catchment area and branch facilities, and the decision to close the Weeke branch was "not taken lightly".
"Customers accounts will be transferred automatically and they will be welcomed at the branch in Winchester," he said.
"We would encourage any customers who have concerns to talk to a member of staff.
"We have arrangements in place to allow our personal customers to use the local post office facilities for paying in cash and withdrawing money and for paying bills."
The closure comes as the Nationwide cash machine in Stoney Lane was also removed on Tuesday.
10:35am Thursday 7th August 2008
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CommentPosted by: LLucas, Weeke on 4:45pm Thu 7 Aug 08
So gutted to hear this news. Just about to move to Weeke and having Barclays in a convenient location was ideal. As we have to use the bank regularly it would have saved time and money to be able to walk. What can we do?
So gutted to hear this news. Just about to move to Weeke and having Barclays in a convenient location was ideal. As we have to use the bank regularly it would have saved time and money to be able to walk. What can we do?
Posted by: jh on 1:03pm Fri 8 Aug 08
Best thing to do is vote with your feet. Worth noting that some banks allow transactions via the Post Office, which may offer options for people
Best thing to do is vote with your feet. Worth noting that some banks allow transactions via the Post Office, which may offer options for people
Posted by: Anon, Weeke on 12:35pm Sat 9 Aug 08
How very short sighted of Barlcays especially with the introduction of Waitrose and Friarsgate Medical Centre at Weeke Parade, this would have provided them with worthy extra custom, obviously they are not concerned about providing customer service, typical attitude of a High Street Bank
How very short sighted of Barlcays especially with the introduction of Waitrose and Friarsgate Medical Centre at Weeke Parade, this would have provided them with worthy extra custom, obviously they are not concerned about providing customer service, typical attitude of a High Street Bank
Posted by: Michael, Winchester on 6:37pm Sun 10 Aug 08
This is extremely short sighted but typical of a head office decision based on current footfall without any local knowledge of future opportunities. I hope another bank takes the outlet over and shows Barclays what they've missed (although the chemist is going to need a bigger outlet once the Friarsgate surgery opens!!!)
This is extremely short sighted but typical of a head office decision based on current footfall without any local knowledge of future opportunities. I hope another bank takes the outlet over and shows Barclays what they've missed (although the chemist is going to need a bigger outlet once the Friarsgate surgery opens!!!)
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