Bank closures to be raised in Parliament

Jim McMahon MP

OLDHAM MP Jim McMahon has warned that people will be left at risk of "financial exclusion," following the announcement by Yorkshire Bank that it is to close branches in Royton and Chadderton.

As reported in the Oldham Chronicle yesterday, The Clydesdale and Yorkshire banking group is to close 79 branches in England, with a total loss of more than 400 jobs.

The Royton branch, on Market Square, is set to close on May 23, with the Chadderton branch in the precinct closing two days later.

The Oldham West and Royton MP said: "The loss of branches in Royton and Chadderton is a huge blow. I know first-hand from family, friends and constituents how important the Royton and Chadderton branches are to local residents.

"Not everyone has access to online banking, and not everyone can travel the extra distance to the Oldham branch."

He added that he has written to Yorkshire Bank asking that they halt the Chadderton closure, as it is the area's last remaining bank.

"I will also be taking this matter to Parliament on behalf of the residents of Royton and Chadderton. I'll be calling for the government to take urgent action and establish a statutory body that ensures access to bank branches," he said.