Ulster Bank has announced it will close nine branches in Northern Ireland from September this year, reducing the number of branches operated in the region by the NatWest-owned lender to 35.
Ulster Bank locations in Holywood, Warrepoint, Dumurry, Antrim, Ballymoney, Larne, Comber, Maghera and Clogher will be shuttered later this year. The company will soon exit the market in the Republic of Ireland, having agreed to sell billions worth of assets to AIB and Permanent TSB.
The bank said all branches earmarked for closure are located within one mile of a free to use ATM and that its partnership with the Post Office in the North would allow customers to withdraw and deposit cash at any of their branches.
"We understand and recognise that digital solutions aren't right for everyone or every situation, and that when we close branches we have to make sure that no one is left behind," an Ulster Bank spokesperson said.
"We take our responsibility seriously to support the people who face challenges in moving online, so we are investing to provide them with support and alternatives that work for them," the bank added.
In Association with
Reacting to the announcement, the Financial Services Union (FSU) said the news was disappointing and that staff, customers and business would suffer.
"This decision will come as a shock to a lot of people and will cause huge distress for staff and local communities. The Financial Services Union will be opposing these closures and reminding the bank of its societal role in providing services to local communities," said John O'Connell, general secretary of the FSU.
"The rationale given for these closures does not stand up to scrutiny. If Banks continue to cut services, you leave people with no choice but to use digital platforms. There are many people who are unable for varied reasons to bank online.
"Ulster Bank have put profit before people and shown a complete disregard for communities and particularly older people and vulnerable people who will be without banking services due to this announcement."
Danske Bank last week said it would close four branches in the North this year, reducing its network to 28, and both Bank of Ireland and AIB have locations last year.
(Pic: Getty Images)
