South Devon residents campaign for banking services after branch closures

Rural communities in South Devon are facing significant challenges due to the widespread closure of bank branches. Over the last decade, nearly two-thirds of bank and building society branches have closed, a trend that could leave the United Kingdom with only 2,700 branches by 2030.

In South Devon, an area covering approximately 500 square miles, only one bank remains following the closure of the Lloyds branch in Totnes in January. This has prompted local campaigning efforts to establish a banking hub through LINK, the public body responsible for qualifying areas for such services.

The shift toward online banking disproportionately affects rural residents, small businesses, and those lacking digital confidence. Many residents must now navigate unreliable public transport to access essential services, often requiring significant time commitments for simple banking tasks.