December 7, 2017 1.42 pm This story is over 75 months old

Gainsborough MP Sir Edward Leigh urges NatWest to reconsider branch closure in town

The branch is set to close in 2018.

Veteran Gainsborough MP Sir Edward Leigh has urged NatWest to reconsider its decision to close its branch in the town’s Market Place.

The bank announced earlier this week that branches in Immingham, Brigg, Stamford and Gainsborough will close in 2018.

Branches in Caistor and Market Rasen, also part of the Gainsborough constituency, have permanently closed in recent years.

The Conservative backbencher, who has represented the town since 1983, has written to NatWest chairman Sir Howard Davis requesting a meeting so the decision can be revisited.

He said: “Towns like Gainsborough are facing growing pressures but also opportunities. Gainsborough in particular has featured redevelopments like Marshall’s Yard which have brought life and business into the town.

“Gainsborough is expected to see economic growth of 12% in future years, supported by an increase in housing of 47%.

“As the town moves from a modest population of around 20,000 to in excess of 30,000, it is a growing and important urban centre and one that would benefit from retaining its NatWest branch.”

The bank is set to close on May 17, 2018.