Richard has been working hard to ensure that Barclays Consett branch closure does not negtaively impact his constituents.
He offers the following statement:
"After getting the news, I have had meetings with Barclays staff in both Westminster and North West Durham. Sadly, Barclays are no longer going to keep open their traditional bank building on Front Street from 21st September. This is as a result of the long-standing switch from over-the-counter services and online competition. However, there is positive news too.
"In the meetings I have undertaken I have re-enforced the point that maintaining: face to face services and access to cash are very important. Barclays has outlined and will implement the following measures to ensure you still get the access you need to cash and your accounts, and also not making any redundancies. They are as follows:
"1) There will be NO REDUNDANCIES – all current staff will be offered roles in different offices if they so wish. Additionally, Barclays are currently recruiting for 22 roles in our area at the moment (See here: https://search.jobs.barclays/)
"2) The cash machine will be maintained and they're looking at introducing cash withdrawal and deposit machines.
"3) Although the traditional bank branch is stopping, Barclays are actively looking to maintain face-to-face services in Consett, just in another premises where they can run it alongside other services. I've already given them contacts to get in touch with the Council and other local hubs. They hope to have this sorted well in advance of the 21st September.
"If you need help or assistance or further information about anything, please do not hesitate to get in touch with me by messaging www.richardholden.org.uk/contact."