Janet Daby, the Member of Parliament for Lewisham East has criticised NatWest for closing its Catford branch which has been open for 116 years.
Earlier this year it was announced that the branch was due to close on 21st August 2024.
Concerned by the impact of this closure on residents, Janet Daby organised a demonstration outside the Catford branch at 159 Rushey Green to collect signatures to a petition criticising NatWest’s decision to close this branch in June.
The petition urged NatWest to rethink and reconsider the social and economic impact of their proposed closure on customers, local businesses, charities and the high street. She also wrote to NatWest highlighting the concerns of the local community.
Commenting on the closure Janet Daby said: “I am disappointed that NatWest will close their Catford branch, which has been serving residents for 116 years.
It is outrageous that residents, especially vulnerable people, including disabled and older individuals as well as small businesses, will be adversely impacted by this closure. Many will have to travel further and longer to access their nearest NatWest banking branch.
“Following this demonstration, I hoped NatWest would see the harm this closure will do to the local area and reverse its damaging decision.”
“I was always pleased with their face-to-face banking approach but their proposals to close the doors of Natwest in Catford is like a slap in the face for Catford residents.”