Business · Devizes
Devizes Lloyds Bank closes permanently as decommissioning plans approved
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
Lloyds Bank has closed its branch in Devizes Market Place, prompting concern from residents about access to cash services and the future of the prominent building.
Lloyds Bank has officially closed its branch in Devizes Market Place, bringing an end to in-person banking services at the historic site. The doors were shut for the final time on Wednesday, 21 October, marking the latest in a series of high street bank closures across the county.
The departure of the major high street lender has left many local customers expressing concern, particularly those who rely on the branch for daily financial transactions. For residents such as Elizabeth Andrews, the loss is more than just a reduction in services; it removes a necessary facility for handling physical cash. Mrs Andrews noted that the absence of a facility that accepts cash deposits creates a significant inconvenience for those who do not operate exclusively online.
The closure has sparked a broader conversation in the town about the changing face of the high street. Some residents have pointed to the rising number of cafes and charity shops as a sign that the town requires more stable retail offerings to remain vibrant. For the older generation, the loss of face-to-face service is felt particularly keenly. Concerns have been raised regarding mobility and access, with some customers suggesting that alternative branches in neighbouring towns are not easily accessible for those with limited mobility who rely on proximity to town centre car parking.
Wiltshire Council recently granted listed building consent for the property, clearing the way for the decommissioning of the site. The approval allows for the removal of external signage, branding and the bank's automated teller machines from the prominent Grade II-listed structure.
While some customers acknowledged that digital banking has become the norm for many, others remain reliant on the branch for complex advice or specific in-person support. For those who can no longer rely on the Devizes branch, banking requirements will now necessitate travel to nearby towns such as Trowbridge, a shift that residents fear could have an economic impact by diverting spending away from the local Devizes economy.
Source: Gazette & Herald — Devizes · View original