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.