Reed demands Barclays think again over Crystal Palace closure

Croydon North MP Steve Reed has written to the Chief Executive of Barclays bank following their decision to close their branch on Westow Street, Upper Norwood.

Mr Reed was advised in an email on Monday that the branch will close on Friday 16 October 2015.  Since the news broke, Mr Reed has been contacted by residents and customers who are concerned that elderly residents and businesses will have to travel to Croydon or Sydenham to cash cheques or deposit cash.

In his letter to Group Chief Executive Antony Jenkins, Mr Reed said “Barclays is the only bank branch in the Crystal Palace Triangle. Its departure goes against the current trend of growth in Crystal Palace itself. There are homes being built and purchased, new shops are opening and businesses are thriving.”

Speaking afterwards, he added: “I think Barclays should think again. Lots of the independent shops and restaurants rely on Barclays for depositing money – it plays a crucial role in keeping our triangle shopping centre thriving.

I hope that the company will consider its social responsibilities and keep open the only branch of any bank in Crystal Palace.”

You can read Mr Reed’s letter here.