**NatWest Reveals Further 55 Branch Closures Amidst Digital Banking Surge**
NatWest has announced a fresh wave of 55 high street branch closures set to take place over the next few months, deepening concerns over the accessibility of in-person banking services in communities across the UK. This move follows a previous decision to shutter 53 branches within the same year, a trend reflecting the bank’s ongoing response to rapidly evolving consumer banking behaviours.
The continued retreat from high street banking is part of a broader industry shift, which has seen the number of physical bank branches nationwide dwindle sharply over the past decade. Recent figures published by consumer group Which? show that since 2015, the NatWest Group — incorporating both Royal Bank of Scotland and Ulster Bank — has axed more than 1,400 branches. The pace of closures highlights the transformation taking place within the sector, with digital platforms increasingly dominating how people manage their finances.
Shoppers and small business owners in affected towns and cities, from Cardiff and Birmingham to Dorchester and Abergele, are now facing the reality of losing access to longstanding local banking facilities. Critics warn that these changes will most deeply impact older customers and those less comfortable with digital technology, who may rely on face-to-face support for managing their accounts, handling cash, or seeking financial advice.
Despite concerns, NatWest has tried to reassure customers by pointing to several alternatives. Account holders can still use any branch within the wider NatWest Group for everyday banking, while some communities will benefit from “mobile branch” services. These pop-up facilities, scheduled for specific days and locations, offer essential services such as cash withdrawals, deposits, and bill payments, stepping in to fill at least part of the void left by branch closures.
Moreover, the bank reminds customers that hundreds of Post Office outlets nationwide provide basic banking services, including cash withdrawals, balance checks and cheque deposits. The Post Office’s partnership with high street banks has become an important lifeline for residents in areas hit hardest by the closure of bricks-and-mortar branches.
A NatWest spokesperson commented on the changes, stating that “over 80% of our active current account holders now use our digital services, with the overwhelming majority of new retail accounts being opened online.” The spokesperson acknowledged, however, that there is still demand for expert support when it comes to complex decisions, adding: “Our branch network remains vital and we’re investing more than £20 million in 2025 to upgrade facilities, improve our environmental footprint, and enhance customer experience.”
The bank also promised that temporary support will be offered as part of their “Community Pop-Up” schemes, assisting customers in selected areas to adapt to the new arrangements during a 12-week transition period.
This latest round of closures will see branches disappearing from towns and suburbs throughout England and Wales, including Abingdon, Cardiff’s Canton and Llanishen, Cromer, Dorchester, Hinckley, Neath, Sudbury, Torquay, and Welshpool among others. According to the details released, some closures will happen as early as September 2025, with others set to follow at later dates.
Industry analysts suggest that while digital banking is here to stay — with convenience and accessibility at the forefront — banks must take care to balance cost-cutting measures with their responsibility to all customers, especially vulnerable groups and those in less connected areas. As the debate continues over the future of high street services, local communities and advocacy groups are likely to keep pushing for sustainable, inclusive solutions that do not leave anyone behind.
For many, these closures signal the end of a familiar era of banking, with the counter service and personal touch soon to be found only in select locations or through digital interactions. As the landscape continues to change, the conversation about access, inclusion and the social value of high street banks is far from over.