Banking in Totton uncertain as Lloyds closure looms

The town is facing the loss of its Lloyds Bank branch in Commercial Road, which is scheduled to shut permanently on October 12.

Now, plans to use Totton Library as a base for a new shared banking hub have been rejected by Hampshire County Council, leaving those behind the plans searching for another town centre site.

Cllr David Harrison, who represents Totton South and Marchwood on the county council, said he had hoped the library could provide an answer, particularly as Barclays already uses the building occasionally.

But he said costly security changes needed for a full-time banking operation meant the plan could not go ahead.

In a Facebook post, Cllr Harrison said: “The town desperately needs a banking hub, especially since we are set to lose Lloyds Bank in Commercial Road.

“The people behind the project to set up a new banking hub are on the search for a suitable building.”

READ MORE: Council to leave notes on windscreens to tackle parking problems

He said the library would require “a lot of expensive work” to meet the security requirements needed for a permanent banking service.

Speaking to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, Cllr Harrison said his preferred site would be the existing Lloyds building.

He said: “I think the Lloyds Bank building would be ideal, but the owners cannot be compelled to sell it and perhaps they have had a better offer.”

A mobile banking service is also being floated as a possible alternative, with Cllr Harrison suggesting a regular visit could operate from the central car park.

He added: “Although most people are using apps or online banking, we still need to think about all those who are unable to do so.”

A Cash Access UK banking hub for Totton was announced in September last year, but suitable premises are still needed before it can open.

Lloyds is the only remaining bank branch in Totton and is due to close in October, although Nationwide Building Society will continue to operate from The Precinct.