Northumberland County Council have confirmed that there will be a discussion on banking services in the next scrutiny committee meeting after residents speak out about concerns of banks disappearing on the high street.

Leader of NCC Glen Sanderson is hoping to discuss and plan the future of banking services in Tynedale after the shocking news of Hexham's Barclays branch closing next year.

With the news of the Hexham branch closing, there are now no Barclays branches in the Tynedale area members of the public can go into.

After closing other branches in the area, Barclays promised mobile branches or 'pop-up' sessions will be in places at libraries or in a van but many residents fear that it is not enough.

Especially for those who do not use banking apps or can go to the sessions.

Cllr Sanderson said: "We know the importance of banks in our local communities and how they are relied on by some residents, and it is always disappointing to see branches closing on our high streets.

"We will be looking to discuss the issue in a future council committee to try and ensure the right services remain available for residents in Northumberland."

Despite the news of a meeting to try and prevent closures or find an alternative solution, Hexham resident and mayor, Derek Kennedy does not think it will change the situation.

Derek said “High Street banks are abandoning towns such as Hexham and replacing their physical presence with a third-rate service such as a banking bus that comes round every few days.

"Barclays made a profit before tax of £7bn in 2022 but is closing in Hexham to save on costs.

"I would urge anyone who has accounts in a bank that is leaving out high street to move their accounts it’s fairly easy to do and have an account with for example Newcastle Building Society or Skipton Building Society who have both expressed a vision to stay on Britain’s high streets.

"While I am happy NCC is holding a meeting I don’t believe the big banks will listen or change strategy. "