I am deeply disappointed by NatWest's decision to close its Bridgwater branch on 27th October 2025. This closure risks excluding some of our most vulnerable residents, especially those who rely on in‑branch support to manage their finances with confidence. It will also be a hit to our town centre, where the loss of regular footfall will add further strain to local high street businesses.
I am formally requesting a meeting with NatWest's local director to discuss the essential support services currently provided at the branch. I will be pressing them to consider alternative face-to-face provision to ensure no one is left behind.
When Barclays closed its Bridgwater branch, it introduced a Barclays Local "banking pod" in Angel Place shopping centre—a cashless and paperless one-stop advice hub offering help with digital banking, fraud prevention, bereavement support, and non-cash transactions. I will be urging NatWest to match that commitment—not just for digital convenience, but to maintain meaningful human support for those who need it most.
