Santander, Leyland set to close

I was shocked find out that yet another high street bank is planning to pull out of Leyland town centre. Santander has confirmed the Leyland branch in Hough Lane will shut during May.

What makes this even more frustrating is that there appears to have been no meaningful consultation with the community before this decision was taken, it has come as a shock to them just as much as it has to me.

For many residents, particularly older people, those without access to reliable transport, and small businesses who still rely on face-to-face banking, a local branch is not a luxury, it’s a necessity.

I’ve been out today speaking to customers about what this closure will mean for them, and it’s clear that many people are worried about how they will manage day-to-day banking without a local branch.

I will be seeking urgent answers from Santander, and I will explore what options are available to help alleviate the impact this closure will have on customers across South Ribble.