The closure of banks in Northern Ireland is now a familiar tale of woe for customers. News that Ulster Bank is to shut a further 10 branches may come as a shock to those who depend on the services, but it won’t come as a surprise. Though the lender has said there will be no further closures until 2026, if the current trajectory continues, they are inevitable at some point. Responding to bank closures is a tap-in for politicians and local representatives in the areas affected — Ballynahinch, Crumlin, Downpatrick, Glengormley, Lisnaskea, Lurgan, Derry’s Waterside and Belfast’s Kings Road, Ormeau Road and University Road — have condemned the closures. Customers affected are forced to travel longer distances to get to a bank branch, possibly having to navigate a public transport system which lacks frequency in many areas of Northern Ireland.

Source: The Times November 22, 2023 08:55 UTC