THE closure of the last two high street banks at Newcastle Emlyn has been described as “a major blow” to the town.

Town councillors at their September meeting were once against critical of the decision by both Lloyds and Barclays to close their branches and also slammed the inadequate mobile provision which is currently being offered.

While accepting there was nothing they could do to change the banks’ minds, they agreed to write to the banks to see if they would not consider operating from one building.

Cllr Allan Davies was particularly critical, accusing Lloyds bank of “using figures to their own advantage”.

“They are playing around with figures and manipulating them. It is still our responsibility to make our views known as to how unhappy we are.”

Cllr Hazel Evans said: “They have suggested people use the Post Office but have they consulted with them? There is only one counter there and it will never work. It is going to be so difficult for local businesses.”

The provision of mobile banking was also slammed by Cllr Alan Jones. “When their allotted time is up, they just go. It’s not working and there is often a queue,” he said.

Mayor, Cllr Cefin Evans said: “It is a major blow to Newcastle Emlyn. I am surprised that no other bank will come here. What about the option of a community bank?”

Cllr Peter Lewis said: “Can we write to all the banks suggesting they have one building in the town? It might even support five neighbouring towns.

“Can they not get their act together and think about supporting their local communities?”

A Lloyds Bank spokesperson said: “We have made the difficult decision to close the Lloyds Bank Newcastle Emlyn branch in January 2019 due to the changing ways customers choose to bank with us, which has resulted in the branch being used less often.

“We will be speaking to customers about the new mobile branch service, which will be on the road before the branch closes, as well as their nearest alternative branch, which is Cardigan.

“Customers can also continue to access their banking locally by visiting the nearby Post Office, which is a short distance from the branch.”