THE Frome TSB branch will be among 36 across the UK which are expected to close this September.

Frome has been deemed eligible for a new deposit service, following persistent lobbying by Prosper Frome and the town council since the closures of HSBC, NatWest, and Barclays in 2023.

Sarah Dyke MP raised the issue at a Parliamentary debate on May 14, expressing concerns for elderly residents. Sarah asked the government to support rural communities in triggering the roll out of banking hubs that will provide much needed face-to-face services.

Frome Town Council’s economic development manager, Peter Wheelhouse, presented to the House of Lords’ Built Environment Select Committee on May 7. He reiterated the concerns of Frome Town Council, Prosper Frome and the wider community about the loss of banks and post offices.

Peter Wheelhouse said: “It has recently been confirmed that Frome now meets the necessary criteria for a deposit service. With only Nationwide left open in Frome Market Place, which does not open after 4.30pm, or at weekends, it’s not sufficient for our residents’ needs.

“We will keep working with Prosper Frome and Sarah Dyke MP with efforts to establish a community banking hub in Frome.”