A NEW banking hub is due to open in Abergele in June.

This will be a shared banking space; like a traditional bank branch, but available to everyone.

It will be located at the former Barclays Bank; Barclays closed its branch in Abergele in late 2017.

After Abergele saw the closure of seven banks in the town, Clwyd West MS Darren made repeated requests to LINK, the UK’s Cash Access and ATM network, for a hub to be opened in the town.

Last year, it was confirmed that Abergele was one of the latest towns in the UK selected for a hub as part of a wider commitment to protect access to cash.

Mr Millar met representatives of LINK last week to discuss the new facility and how it will benefit residents of Abergele. 

He said: “Whilst there are a number of ATMs nearby and a Post Office, there are currently no banks in Abergele and residents have to travel to Colwyn Bay or Rhyl to visit their branch.

“So, this hub is much-needed, and I know that residents are really looking forward to it opening in just a matter of weeks now.

“In towns where hubs have already been installed, they have proved to be a great success. Prestatyn Banking Hub opened before Christmas and is well-used by residents of all ages. 

“The hubs have a counter service where customers of all main banks can withdraw and deposit cash, make bill payments, and carry out regular banking transactions.

“Also, they have private spaces where customers can speak to someone from their own bank about more complex issues.

“The banks will be working on a rotating basis, so there will be staff from different banks available on different days.

“The aim is that all the main banks in the area will take part in the rota.

“It was good to catch up with LINK to discuss the upcoming opening of the new Banking Hub, which will be located at 67 Market Street, the former Barclays Bank, and to thank them for all that they are doing to ensure people can still easily access cash.

“I very much forward to the new hub opening in Abergele very soon and will update residents once an exact date has been confirmed.”