Moving out – bank business centre closes

A banking business centre has been closed after more than 25 years of operating in the town centre.

Barclays first opened its business centre in North Street in 1988, but last week removals men started the clear out.

The company sign hanging over the front door was taken down by workmen while removals vans were filled with desks, cupboards and other office furniture.

It follows news in April that the former RBS business centre at nearby Northgate House in North Street could be converted into new town centre flats, and the conversion of Westwell House back into a residential property.

Historical images of the area show how North Street used to look before the construction of the Barclays business centre and Northgate House between 1988 and 1990, where there used to be a council car park.

A Barclays spokesman says 13 jobs were transferred out from the Ashford business centre in June, with staff now working at centres around Kent.

The spokesman said the decision was taken by the bank after its lease expired on the building, and said many of the staff who were commuting in are now posted at offices which are closer to their homes.

It is believed that the level of busi- ness being handled at the centre had declined, leading to a decision not to renew the lease.

It is not clear what will now happen to the building and whether it may also be converted into flats in a similar application to the former RBS site, or whether a new business tenant will be found.

Both the Kentish Express in the other half of Northgate House and accountancy firm Calcutt Matthews are set to remain at their premises at the end of North Street.

What do you think? Write to Kentish Express, 34-36 North Street, Ashford TN24 8JR or email kentishexpress@thekmgroup.co.uk

Barclays is moving out of its business centre after 25 years