A BANK in Stroud has closed its doors for the last time. 

NatWest - located in Bank Buildings, George Street - closed permanently yesterday (Wednesday, April 26). 

It is the latest bank to close in the town centre, following the closures of Barclays Bank and Halifax last year. 

Another bank HSBC - which is located in King Street -  is set to close on Sunday, May 16. 

A sign on the door of NatWest reads: “This brand closed on April 26. 

“There are lots of alternatives to choose from to do your banking securely. 

“The nearest branch is NatWest Gloucester. The nearest Post Office branch is Stroud.”

NatWest announced the closure of 23 branches across the country in February, saying the vast majority of customers now bank online.

Stroud News and Journal: NatWest shut its doors for a final time yesterday (Wednesday, April 26)NatWest shut its doors for a final time yesterday (Wednesday, April 26) (Image: Newsquest)

A spokesperson added: "Closing a branch is always difficult and not a decision we ever take lightly."

The spokesperson previously said that counter transactions in Stroud decreased by nearly 60 per cent between January 2019 and January 2022.

And it added that in 2021, just over 75 per cent of customers using the branch also chose to use online banking or their mobile app.

However, previously customers and town leaders hit out at the decision, saying not everyone is comfortable with online banking.

Tony Davey, chair of Stroud Chamber of Trade, said the closure was 'regrettable'.

Meanwhile, Stroud mayor Stella Parkes previously said she was ‘very concerned’ about the situation.

"Face to face banking and the ability to manage cash are essential for many people and businesses, especially in these difficult times," said Ms Parkes.

"We are very concerned about these banks deserting Stroud.

"These closures disproportionately impact people who are not able to access internet banking.”