More bank branch closures! NatWest Group's Ulster Bank to close 10 more branches
Ulster Bank will close 10 bank branches in Northern Ireland
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Ulster Bank has announced 10 more bank branches will close their doors for good in Northern Ireland.
The bank, which is part of NatWest Group, said the closures come following a fall in customer demand for branches and an increase in the use of online banking.
Between January 2019 and January 2023, average counter transactions reduced by 53 per cent, Ulster Bank said.
Their research found, in the same period, the number of customers using mobile apps increased by 45 per cent.
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NatWest Group has confirmed 10 Ulster Bank branches will close
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Ulster Bank will close three of its bank branches in Belfast.
Among the closures, the bank will shut its branches in Ballynahinch, Lisnaskea and Crumlin, where Ulster Bank is the last remaining retail bank in the town or village.
The bank said it is aware that not everyone is comfortable or able to use online banking services, pointing out they have got a dedicated support line for customers over the age of 60, which is open 8am to 8pm seven days a week with shorter waiting times.
For those where moving online isn't possible, Ulster Bank said it has invested in its partnership with the Post Office to provide daily face-to-face banking services in the local area.
Full list of 10 more Ulster Bank branch closures
- Ballynahinch
- Crumlin
- Downpatrick
- Glengormley
- Kings Road, Belfast
- Lisnaskea
- Lurgan
- Ormeau Road, Belfast
- University Road, Belfast
- Waterside, Derry-Londonderry
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An Ulster Bank spokesperson said: “As with many industries, most of our customers are shifting to mobile and online banking, because it’s faster and easier for people to manage their financial lives.
“We understand and recognise that digital solutions aren’t right for everyone or every situation, and that when we close branches we have to make sure that no one is left behind.
“We take our responsibility seriously to support the people who face challenges in moving online, so we are investing to provide them with support and alternatives that work for them.”
For a period of up to 12 weeks following a closure, Ulster Bank will have pop-ups in selected locations where advisors are on hand to provide face-to-face cashless support.