Public called to have say on Ottery’s last bank

A public meeting has been called for residents to have their say on saving Ottery’s last bank.

Councillor Peter Faithfull has organised the event on Friday, June 15, as he wants to gauge the community’s views to find a way forward following the decision by Lloyds to close its doors later this year.

Lloyds Banking Group announced in April the Silver Street branch would close on October 10.

Customers were advised they could bank in Ottery Post Office, travel to a neighbouring branch, or use a new mobile branch service which will visit the town.

Cllr Faithfull, who will chair the meeting, said potential options could be to start a campaign, look into ways to utilise alternative services, or the possibility of setting up a local community bank or building society.

He said: “There have been a lot of people saying we should do this or that. We are trying to draw out from people how much enthusiasm and willingness they have, rather than complaining that somebody should do this or that. If people want it, they need to be willing to make something happen.

“It has been suggested that with each loss of a bank there is a drop in footfall of customers visiting the other shops and businesses.”

Representatives from the post office, Lloyds Bank and South West Mutual have been approached about attending the meeting.

Cllr Faithful said he was not sure how many people would attend.

The meeting will take place at The Institute at 7.30pm.