The Barclays branch in Whitefriars, Norwich, has closed its doors due to a lack of in-person customers. Barclays stated that only 16 customers used the branch for their banking needs, while 91% of its customers used online and phone services in 2021. Local business owners expressed their concerns, stating that online banking poses a risk of forgery and that phone wait times can be lengthy. Barclays has requested permission from the city council to remove its ATMs and return the building to its previous state.
One regular visitor, Michael Parkerson, said that the closure would affect him as a business owner who prefers to not use online banking. Another customer, Amy Cannings, emphasized the convenience of having a nearby bank and expressed the need for accessible services for online banking. With the closure of the Whitefriars branch, the closest Barclays branch will be located in the city centre.
James Sharman, who is not a regular visitor to the branch, acknowledged the convenience of being able to pay in cheques in person but primarily relies on online banking. The closure of the Whitefriars branch was announced in July, along with several other closures nationwide that would result in the loss of approximately 450 jobs. However, it has been reported that all staff members from the Whitefriars branch have been offered new opportunities.
