Havant Borough Council is delighted
to learn that Havant Town Centre has been recommended for a
banking hub, which will be delivered by Cash Access UK –
a not-for-profit company funded by the major high street
banks. This follows a recent review by Link, whom the
Council have been liaising with since last year.
The new shared banking hub will
bring cash and everyday banking services to the town centre,
such as cash withdrawals, depositing cash and cheques, and
paying utility bills, as well as a community banker service,
allowing customers to speak with their own bank about more
complicated matters on specific days.
The community facility will allow
residents and local businesses to access banking services
in-person, regardless of who they bank with. These hubs are
designed to offer easy access to cash and face-to-face
banking support, especially in areas where traditional local
branches have closed.
Councillor Phil Munday, Leader of
Havant Borough Council, said “Hearing the news that Lloyds
Bank in West Street were closing their doors in our town
centre caused great concern, so I am thrilled Havant has
been recommended to receive a banking hub.
Councillors have worked extremely
hard to ensure that this new type of face-to-face banking
would be considered for all of our local urban centres.”
Cabinet lead for Regeneration and
Communities. Councillor Gillian Harris, added “The fact that
such an essential service will be available in our town
centre is excellent news for many residents and will be
highly beneficial to our community.
"Banks are still an essential part
of day-to-day life, not just for our residents but for our
local businesses as well.
This news, teamed with the extension of our Vacant
Shop Scheme being launched in Havant will mean that our long
term plan to regenerate Havant Town Centre will start to
come into fruition."
Councillor Sharon Collings, Group
leader for Reform added: “Banking isn't purely a cash
transaction function.
Not everyone banks online nor should they be forced
to, many people need in person interaction for a multitude
of reasons.
This is a great outcome for our community that will support
footfall in the high street, local businesses and ultimately
our residents who rely on these essential services to avoid
them becoming financially vulnerable and isolated."
A date for the opening of the
Banking Hub is yet to be confirmed
