Shipston fights back against planned HSBC closure

News that the Shipston branch of the HSBC is set to close in November has been met with anger by Shipston councillors, residents and businesses. One of only five closures announced across the UK, the closure will lead to the loss of two cashpoints in the town, with only one bank still providing a counter service.

The news comes at a time when Shipston’s High Street is showing signs of growth and new homes in the town are on the increase.

Individual district, county and town councillors, as well as Stour[nbsp]United Businesses, have written to the decision- makers at HSBC demanding a rethink. In addition, Shipston Town Council has formally written to the bank and has raised the matter with the local MP.

Mayor, Ronnie Murphy, said, “we are all appalled at HSBC’s decision to close Shipston’s [nbsp]busy [nbsp]and [nbsp]much-needed branch. There has been no consultation with customers or councillors and the implications will be significant both for Shipston and surrounding villages. Businesses are particularly reliant on branch banking but are now expected to travel to Stratford or Moreton to manage their accounts.”

Former Mayor and bank customer, Brenda Broughton, is calling on all residents to write to HSBC, a plea echoed by Shipston Town Council. “We have already received a number of complaints about this closure and I sincerely hope, with the support of local residents and businesses, that we can persuade HSBC to rethink its plans,” Councillor Murphy added.