Councillors representing Brecon have met HSBC officials to discuss community concerns in relation to the proposed closure of its Brecon branch.

At the meeting called by Cllr Matthew Dorrance local representatives sought assurances from the bank that customers would be supported, and robust arrangements put in place to ensure local residents, charities and businesses can retain access to the bank’s services.

HSBC has confirmed that its Brecon branch will close in May with deposit, withdrawal and balance check services being available from the Post Office. The bank also has a community pop-up bank under consideration during the transition period.

Cllr Matthew Dorrance said:

 

“Whilst it is deeply disappointing that HSBC will be leaving Brecon’s High Street, and I am concerned about the impact that will have on the bank’s customers, staff and the town centre, I am grateful to officials from the bank for the way they have engaged with us on behalf of the community.

 

“The bank has assured us that it will put support in place to help make sure its customers can access services. This support includes a community pop-up providing face to face support and guidance and I have asked HSBC to consider how it can develop links with the local Credit Union.”

The iconic town centre building is not owned by HSBC and Councillors have committed to exploring contact with the building owners to “try and ensure that it can brought back into use as quickly as possible” added Matthew.

Cllr Chris Walsh added:

 

“I am pleased that we have been able to engage with HSBC in a constructive way to ensure that residents in Brecon who bank with HSBC are supported through the bank’s branch closure process.

 

“The bank has put a range of support schemes in place including help to move to online, telephone, and Post Office access and they have said they can also provide vulnerable customers with a tablet device to access services. We urge anyone who needs advice or support to contact the bank as soon as possible.”