Powys MP to meet with LINK over Presteigne cash crisis

Residents in Presteigne will be left without a major bank when Lloyds withdraws from the Powys border town next March.

This will include the bank’s ATM being removed – meaning the nearest cash machine available to residents will now be 4 or 5 miles away, at Co-operative stores in Knighton and Kington.

LINK, the UK's cash machine network, which decides where new services are needed, has raised concerns about access to cash in Presteigne. It conducted an assessment after being contacted by new Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe MP, Mr Chadwick.

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“I am delighted that LINK have carried out an assessment into banking services in Presteigne as a result of my request,” said Liberal Democrat, Mr Chadwick, on Wednesday, October 2.

“Their assessment agrees that access to cash in Presteigne will be inadequate as a result of Lloyds closing its branch.

“I look forward to meeting with LINK in the coming days to assess what options are available for the community, but I am reassured the starting point for conversations seems to indicate the bare minimum that would be expected is a new ATM machine for the town.”

Lloyds will vacate Presteigne on March 3, 2025. In a booklet explaining its decision to close the Hereford Street branch, Lloyds said: “Most customers are now using our mobile banking app, internet banking or calling us instead.

“This means they are using branches, including our Presteigne branch, much less. Because of this, we'll be closing our Presteigne branch.”

David Chadwick (right), campaigning with Welsh Lib Dem leader Jane Dodds and national leader Ed Davey on the streets of Knighton earlier this year. (Image: PA)Lloyds explained that some banking services can still be obtained at Presteigne Post Office, but not the ATM, which will be removed.

LINK say they agree with Mr Chadwick that there is a gap in cash access services available in the local area, which will significantly impact the community.

LINK have said that, as a minimum, a replacement ATM for the community is required, and they will discuss options available for the community with Mr Chadwick.  

Presteigne was one of several towns and villages in Powys that Mr Chadwick submitted for a review, with others including Builth Wells, Brecon and Ystradgynlais.

“This is the first step in finding a solution for bank closures across our towns and villages,” added Mr Chadwick.

“I will continue to liaise with LINK on assessments for other communities I have requested across the constituency including Ystradgynlais and Builth Wells.

“I will also continue to press the UK Government to assist in the rolling out of banking hubs across rural communities in Mid Wales.”