A PETITION has been launched by a Cornwall councillor seeking to persuade the operators of the ‘banking hubs’ to open a branch in Wadebridge.

The petition, launched by councillor Robin Moorcroft, seeks to persuade LINK to reverse its position that a full banking hub is not required in the town.

It comes ahead of the final bank branch withdrawal in the town, with Lloyds bank set to close in February 2025.

While a banking hub is being launched in nearby Bodmin, in the store formerly occupied by Clark’s Shoes on Fore Street, it has been decided that Wadebridge only requires a deposit service, such as the service presently operated at the town’s post office.

Disagreeing with this assessment, Cllr Moorcroft said that in his view, this position is incorrect and the introduction of a full banking hub would not only just benefit the residents of Wadebridge but those of adjacent towns such as Padstow.

In the petition, he said: “In February 2025 the last remaining banking branch in Wadebridge - Lloyds will close. LINK are a business aiming to ensure that access to cash through ATM's by working with all major banks and building societies is easy and to support those who find this difficult. LINK work alongside the Government, Regulators, the public and consumer groups.

“LINK have assessed that Wadebridge is not in need of a Banking Hub but is suitable for a Deposit Service. We believe a Banking Hub is not just for Wadebridge, but would also benefit the wider community and outlying parishes - Padstow, Rock etc. Banking hubs are shared spaces on high streets across the UK that allow customers from multiple banks to deposit and withdraw money, get face-to-face help, carry out regular banking transactions, have private rooms for one-to-one discussions.

“These hubs are becoming more important as individual bank branches continue to close. In addition to the hubs, withdrawal and deposit machines are also being placed in libraries and community centres.

“This petition will not guarantee a Hub, but can show the depth of feeling within our community and those around Wadebridge for the decision to be reviewed.”

Cash Access UK has been approached for comment.