Unite the Union, the UK’s biggest trade union, said it informed the staff today and labelled the cuts as “unnecessary”.
Lloyds Banking Group will close 49 branches across Lloyds Bank, Halifax and Bank of Scotland, meaning 99 staff will lose their jobs.
Unite the Union, the UK’s biggest trade union, said it informed the staff today and labelled the cuts as “unnecessary”.
Rob MacGregor, Unite’s national officer, said: “Lloyds Banking Group needs to halt this unnecessary bank branch closure program.
"Local communities are making it clear that the closure of their local branch excludes customers who cannot use digital means to conduct their financial transactions.
“Having returned to profitability LBG needs to stop ignoring its corporate social responsibilities. Just over six months ago the bank announced the closure of 100 branches and today another 49 branches.
"The news today will not be welcomed by staff or the customers left with no access to local banking."
Lloyds Banking Group said in a statement that even with these closuresabout 95% of Lloyds customers and around 90% of Bank of Scotland and Halifax customers wouldstill have a usable branch within five miles of their home
A spokesman said: "Customers are increasingly choosing to use digital and mobile channels for their everyday banking needs.
"As a consequence, the number of customers visiting some of our branches has declined in recent years. In response to this, we have confirmed the locations of some branches which will close next year across Lloyds Bank, Halifax and Bank of Scotland.
"Branches remain a key part of the service we offer to customers, and we continue to make significant investment in revitalising our network, shaping it to their needs."
