A CAMPAIGN has been launched to save the NatWest branch in Shipley following an announcement that it faces closure.

Anna Dixon, Labour’s parliamentary candidate for Shipley and Mike Connors, Chair of Shipley Town Council, have led the campaign after market traders and businesses raised concern around access and reduction of footfall in the town as a result of the bank’s closure.

NatWest announced it would be closing 43 branches across the UK, including those in Shipley and Ilkley, in the move to transition its banking services online.

The UK’s second biggest lender said the vast majority of its retail banking services can be done digitally and it is the quicker and easier way to bank.

The group acknowledged some customers might be worried by the closure of their local branch, particularly if they are uncomfortable or unable to use online banking, but it will ensure “no-one is left behind”.

A NatWest spokesperson said: “We understand and recognise that digital solutions aren’t right for everyone or every situation, and that when we close branches we have to make sure that no-one is left behind.

“We take our responsibility seriously to support the people who face challenges in moving online, so we are investing to provide them with support and alternatives that work for them.”

Anna Dixon, Labour’s parliamentary candidate for Shipley, said: “The closure of the bank is another blow to Shipley town centre and will badly affect local shops and businesses. It will reduce access to banking facilities for people who are not online - disproportionately affecting older people and those who can't afford smart phones or internet at home.

“It is vital we stop any further closures and start to see improvements to the town centre being made and more community events to attract people to Shipley.”

Mike Connors, chair of Shipley Town Council, added: “I appeal to all those who are in a position to take positive actions to reverse the negative perception of Shipley, to now step forward to ensure that Shipley’s long-held reputation as an important local retail hub is fully restored.”

Residents and customers are being urged to attend a public meeting tomorrow (October 27) from 5pm until 6pm at the Kirkgate Centre in Shipley to make their views heard.

Local traders, town councillors, district councillors and representatives of the Towns Fund have been invited as has a representative from NatWest to challenge the closure and to discuss how to stop the decline of the town centre.