Changing customer habits blamed as Danske set to close two branches

DANSKE Bank has announced that it will be closing two branches in Belfast and Bangor later this year.

The city’s Lisburn Road branch and Bangor’s Main Street branch will cease trading on May 24.

There are five branches in the greater Belfast area, and Danske’s other branch in the seaside town at Bloomfield Shopping Centre is being upgraded.

Danske’s Richard Caldwell said the closures were due to people’s changing habits.

“The way customers use branches has changed signifi-

Danske Bank will shut branches in Belfast and Bangor in May

cantly in recent years,” he said. “Many are now choosing to use different ways to bank with us, such as digital or banking on

the telephone. As a business, we must respond to these changes, therefore priorities for investment will adapt and change. Sometimes this can mean investing more in certain key branches.

“Through transformational upgrades, we have invested over £3m in key local branches over the past two years.

“On other occasions, unfortunately it means taking hard decisions to close certain branches that are being underused.

“We do not take such decisions lightly.”

Scott Kennerley of the Consumer Council urged customers to check if the new arrangements will meet their needs.

“Whilst some consumers are comfortable accessing banking services via the internet, through apps, and over the phone, it is important to remember there are still many people, and small businesses, who continue to rely on face-to-face banking services,” he said.

“Before these latest closures, we would advise customers to liaise with the branch and discuss their banking needs and alternative options available.

“If visiting a branch is still important to you, there might be alternative banking options available in your area, including accessing banking services at the Post Office.”

The Consumer Council has a financial services map on www. consumercouncil.org.uk

After the closures, Danske will have 40 branches here.