The NatWest branch in West Bridgford is set to close its doors this summer, as part of the bank’s wider strategy to adapt to changing customer banking habits.
This decision, the bank said, reflects a shift in how people manage their finances, with a significant move towards digital banking services.
A Decline in Branch Usage
Between October 2019 and October 2024, the West Bridgford branch saw a 35% drop in counter transactions for personal customers, highlighting reduced footfall. During the same period, 78% of personal customers who used the branch also opted for online or mobile banking, demonstrating a growing preference for digital solutions. On average, the branch served 248 personal and 206 business customers monthly over the last year.
The branch will close on 24 June 2025.
Nationwide Trends
The closure of the West Bridgford branch is part of a broader trend across the banking sector. NatWest recorded a 62% reduction in counter transactions and a 53% increase in mobile app usage between 2019 and 2024. In the year leading up to October 2024 alone, over 798 million mobile and online transactions were processed by the bank, underlining the shift away from physical branches.
Alternatives for Customers
Although the branch is closing, NatWest says it is providing a variety of alternative banking options:
- Nearest Branches: Customers can visit the Nottingham Smiths Bank branch (3.02 miles away), Arnold branch (9.83 miles away), or Ilkeston branch (11.46 miles away).
- Banking Hubs: These facilities offer face-to-face banking services, including cash deposits and withdrawals, cheque handling, and utility bill payments.
- Post Office Services: Customers can conduct basic banking, including deposits, withdrawals, and balance checks, at nearby Post Office locations.
- Free-to-Use Cash Machines: Multiple free cash machines are within 0.8 miles of the branch.
- Digital Banking: NatWest’s mobile app and online banking platforms allow customers to manage their accounts 24/7, with features such as balance checks, money transfers, and bill payments.
