RBS shuts Stafford doors for the last time
The Royal Bank of Scotland has shut its doors in Stafford for the final time.
Five members of staff were working at the Greengate Street branch – with two redeployed and three taking voluntary redundancy.
It is among 162 in England and Wales to shut this month, with the loss of nearly 792 jobs. It comes six months after another round of RBS bank closures.
Stafford Borough Council leader, Councillor Patrick Farrington, said the local authority was keen to make sure the building does not remain empty.
He said: “As far as the council are concerned, that building was rented out by us to the Royal Bank of Scotland and we are looking at other alternatives to fill the space.
“It is sad for customers. Many people, including the elderly, do not have access to the internet, or if they do, many do not use online banking.”
He added: “I am aware of some proposals to fill the unit. There are some irons in the fire but I cannot disclose what they are but it does not look like it will be filled any time soon but there are inquiries.
“I do not feel it will impact the footfall in the town. The high street is changing. There is a drive towards leisure and entertainment.”
The branch shut last Thursday.
An RBS Spokesperson said: “We have made our decision after careful consideration of a range of factors including changes in customer usage of the branch over a long period of time.
“Developing technology means that customers can use Natwest branches for services including withdrawing cash, checking balances or paying in and vice-versa.”
Customers are now expected to use Natwest in Greengate Street. RBS and Natwest merged in 2000.
