Ystradgynlais now has a permanent Banking Hub, officially opened today by MP David Chadwick.

The opening comes following a long campaign by the Welsh Liberal Democrats which began in 2023, when Lloyds Bank announced it would close its branch in the town. The closure notice sparked concern among residents and local businesses about access to essential banking services. Public meetings were held in the town by Mr Chadwick and Jane Dodds MS, and attempts to persuade Lloyds to stay open were unsuccessful.

The Ystradgynlais branch of Lloyds closed its doors for the final time in September 2023, leaving the town with no bank.

Mr Chadwick submitted an application to LINK, the agency responsible for rolling out banking hubs across the UK. After an initial rejection, he launched an appeal, challenging some of the data used by LINK and gathering testimonies from local businesses, clubs, and organisations to demonstrate the town’s need. LINK representatives were invited to Ystradgynlais to see first-hand why a hub was required.

A temporary hub opened in May this year, and today’s opening marks the launch of the permanent facility at 14 Commercial Street (Ystradgynlais, Swansea, SA9 1HD). Customers of all major banks can visit the hub any weekday between 9am-5pm to carry out regular cash transactions including cash withdrawals and deposits as well as checking balances or paying bills. The hub also offers a community banker service where customers can talk to their own bank in a private space about more complicated issues on the day their bank is in the hub, with representatives from Barclays on Mondays, Lloyds on Wednesdays, HSBC on Thursdays, and Halifax on Fridays.

MP for Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe David Chadwick said: “This is fantastic news for Ystradgynlais. After months of pressure, rejected applications and persistent campaigning, including personally showing the Banking Hub regulator around our vibrant town, I’m delighted that the Liberal Democrats have been able to secure a permanent, long-term hub opening on Commercial Street.

“I launched this campaign to make sure communities like Ystradgynlais and the surrounding area aren’t cut off from essential services. Securing a permanent Banking Hub is a major step in ensuring our towns remain supported, connected and able to thrive.

“I will continue pushing to ensure that facilities like this remain protected and that no community in our area is left behind.”

MS for Mid and West Wales Jane Dodds also welcomed the news.

“The opening of this permanent Banking Hub is a huge victory for the people of Ystradgynlais and I’m glad the Welsh Lib Dems were able to spearhead this campaign to secure a major win for the town,” she said.

“Access to banking is not a luxury; it is a necessity, particularly for older residents, small businesses, and those who rely on cash. This hub will make a real and lasting difference to the community.”