Craig Williams, Welsh Conservative MP for Montgomeryshire, has expressed his disappointment over HSBC’s plans to close its Welshpool branch, and has emphasised that banking services must be protected for its customers.

HSBC have today announced plans to close 82 of its branches across the UK, including its Welshpool branch. The branch is projected to close on September 24, 2021.

Craig Williams MP said:“I am today bitterly disappointed to learn of HSBC’s planned closure of its Welshpool branch, which will be an enormous blow to its staff, customers and the town as a whole.

"Over the counter services are extremely important to many customers who prefer not to bank online, or who are unable to. It is vital that HSBC makes it a top priority to discuss new arrangements with its customers, in order to lessen the impact of this decision as far as possible if the bank decides to force its proposals through.

“Whilst I am pleased that HSBC has reached an agreement with the Post Office in Welshpool to allow its personal and business customers to conduct a range of banking services over the counter, this does not fully compensate for the closure of a personalised and local branch.

“I am already in contact with HSBC representatives in urging them to reconsider their decision, and supporting the concerns of its Welshpool staff and customers who have loyally supported the bank over many years. I very much hope that HSBC will think again before implementing these devastating changes.”