Montgomeryshire Assembly Member, Russell George, is to meet with senior management from HSBC to discuss its decision to close its Llanidloes Branch.
Mr George will meet with HSBC’s Regional Retail Banking Director in Cardiff on 15th July and will take the opportunity to raise the concerns he has regarding the rationale for closing the branch and the effect it will have on customers and the local community.
In a separate development, following a full Powys County Council Meeting, it was agreed that the local authority would also write to HSBC and request a meeting to discuss the proposed branch closure and its potential impact.
Commenting, Mr George said:
"I am very interested in the rationale they have used to justify the proposed closure of this branch in Llanidloes.
"I visited the bank recently and it was very busy indeed.
"I also have real concerns about the impact this potential closure will have on the local community – how it will affect businesses in the town and how it will affect those with limited access to alternative banking facilities.
"There will be many people in the Llanidloes community that rely heavily on the services provided by the branch and who will really struggle to accesses other financial amenities.
"Telephone and internet banking services are not going to be practical solutions for many people.
"I will be raising my concerns with the Regional Director but if customers who use the bank would like me to raise their particular issues as well, then please contact me on russell.george@wales.gov.uk or on 01686 610887."