NatWest has gone ahead and closed more of its bank branches this month. If you're from Stoke-on-Trent, you probably already know that the Longton branch is now completely shut. It happened on June 5, and honestly, not everyone saw it coming so soon. It’s part of this bigger move by the bank to focus more on online and app-based banking.
The thing is, it’s not just Longton. NatWest has been shutting down branches all over the UK lately. Some people are okay with it — they already do everything on their phone. But for others, especially older folks or people who aren’t super into tech, this whole shift is pretty frustrating. A lot of them still like walking into a bank and talking to someone face-to-face.
Why NatWest is closing branches like this
From what the bank says, it’s mostly because people just aren’t using the branches as much anymore. Apparently, counter transactions have dropped by more than half over the past few years. At the same time, mobile banking has gone way up. Like, most of their new accounts now get opened online.
Here’s what NatWest is saying:
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Most customers prefer using the app or website now
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97% of new accounts are opened online
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Mobile banking usage has gone up by over 80%
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They’ve made thousands of phone calls to help people switch to digital
So yeah, they’re basically trying to keep up with how people are banking these days. Still, not everyone’s happy about it. Some customers feel like the bank didn’t really consider how tough this change might be for people who don’t use smartphones or need extra help managing their money.
What's happening in and around Stoke-on-Trent
It’s not just Longton. Other NatWest branches in the Midlands are closing too. Places like Uttoxeter, Cannock, Leek, and Stafford are also on the list. The bank says there will be support through Post Offices and even mobile banking vans, but people aren’t sure if that’s enough.
If your branch is closing, here’s what NatWest says you can do:
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Use your local Post Office for basic banking stuff
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Try their mobile app or website for most services
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Book a video call if you need help or advice
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Look out for mobile banking vans in your area
Still, for people who aren’t into digital stuff, these “alternatives” might not really feel like a replacement. Some even said they felt a bit left behind by the decision.
NatWest is changing fast — not just branches
Something else to know: the government no longer owns any part of NatWest. They’ve sold off their remaining shares, which means the bank is now fully back in private hands. This comes almost two decades after the financial crisis when the government had to step in and save it.
Also, there's a new face leading the retail banking side of things — Solange Chamberlain. She’s stepping in as the new CEO, which could mean even more changes are coming. No one knows yet what direction she’ll take, but it’s pretty clear that NatWest is leaning more into digital, less into old-school branches.
