Row over future use of former bank

Natwest Bank, Uppermill

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COMMUNITY campaigners are frustrated over a banking giant's refusal to allow its former premises be sold for banking purposes.

Despite concerted efforts, Saddleworth lost its last remaining bank when NatWest closed its premises on Uppermill High Street in June.

Now the imposing detached three-storey premises is to be sold by auction next month.

But, among a list of restrictions listed on its use, is the premises cannot be used as a bank or building society. Oldham's former mayor and councillor Richard Knowles, who lives in Greenfield, backed by other community champions, failed to get banking chiefs to change their minds and keep the bank open. He said: "NatWest were eager to close down Saddleworth's last bank in Uppermill in June.

"It is shocking that they are now denying rival banks the opportunity to buy the empty bank building and provide residents and businesses with a local bank.

"With the other restrictions placed by NatWest on future use, the options seem to be another restaurant or cafe/coffee bar or conversion to flats."

After the closure, Parish councillor Jamie Curlie convinced NatWest to install a community bank manager who works from Uppermill Civic Hall.

But on the building sale, he said: "I'm disappointed at the restrictions placed on the buyer.

"But the building is being sold freehold, so dependent on the sale contract the buyer could possibly apply to change the use of the building.

"We will just have to see but I hope whoever does buy it they develop it with sensitivity to the local community."

He added: "No other bank or financial institution has come forward to want to open in Uppermill and we do have the dedicated community banking facility that NatWest put in place.

"But I have asked NatWest if they donate a percentage of the sale to community projects and organisations."

Steve Hewitt, a Labour councillor and Saddleworth parish councillor, took up the fight on behalf of angry villagers and businesses when NatWest closed its Lees branch.

He said: "My experience of the banks and the banking system is inherently untrustworthy, they will renege on any promise made to make a few quid.

"This is a shame as progress was being made, and when it goes to auction I hope the new owners are sympathetic with the refurbishment of the beautiful building and the village in general.

"As for not reopening as a bank that is just spiteful ensuring there is no competition."

Travel

And Councillor Nicola Kirkham, Saddleworth Parish Council chairman, said: "Why can't it be another bank?

"Shutting down the bank has affected small businesses.

"People are now having to travel to do certain kinds of banking, therefore they are shopping elsewhere."

Councillor Pam Byrne, former parish council chairman, said: "I am fascinated by the restrictions of the sale but wonder how enforceable they are in planning terms.

"Given the way the banks are going in national closures of branches I doubt it would be realistic for another bank to open there but it would be good for the local authority to take it on at that price for education or culture."

Graham Sheldon, the former Uppermill village sub-postmaster and an Oldham councillor said: "I am sad at the loss of the NatWest as it always appeared to be a busy business.

"I hope the new owner will maintain and enhance the building within the special surroundings in Uppermill.

"The use of the building will be determined by local demands but I would prefer the space be used for employment in favour of dwellings."

One disgruntled businessman said: "The bank's closure brought a host of problems.

"I have to make a 90-minute round trip to bank in Oldham, which often includes queuing for more than half an hour in the bank."

The detached freehold building is due to be sold by public auction on Tuesday, September 12, with an ATM built in a separate room and is subject to a lease back to NatWest plc.

A £250,000 guide price has been placed on the building.