COUNCILLORS have met with representatives from Barclays to discuss the closure of the town's branch.

The bank, located on Market Street, is earmarked for closure on October 12 however strong opposition from the council and members of the public have arisen since the announcement.

Barclays said the decision to shut it down was due to a 'sustained fall' in visits to the branch.

A Barclays spokesman said: “The decision to close a branch is never an easy one. However, customers are increasingly using alternatives to branches to do their banking."

“As a result, we are seeing a sustained fall in branch visits across the UK.

“This is reflected at Carnforth branch, where there has been a 34 per cent reduction in counter transactions in the two years to March 2020. In addition, 85 per cent of our customers at the branch are also using different ways to bank.

“We will work with our customers and provide alternative options to ensure they can continue to manage their money and receive financial expertise when required.”

The nearest branch is now in Lancaster.

A petition was launched by the council in response and has since received more than 1000 signatures. 

READ MORE: Campaign to reverse bank closure gathers momentum

Members of the council met with Barclays representives on July 26. 

A council spokesman said: "Carnforth Town Council has had a constructive meeting this week with representatives of Barclays Bank concerning the proposed closure of the Carnforth branch scheduled for 12 October. 

"In light of the level of public opposition to the news that the proposed closure has generated, assurances were sought regarding the on-going support that would be available for bank customers and Barclays stated desire to maintain a presence in the community. 

"It is hoped that a definitive statement of intent regarding the shape and nature of future provision of their services will be available from Barclays shortly."

To add to the petition visit: change.org/p/petition-urging-barclays-bank-to-reconsider-its-decision-to-close-its-carnforth-branch?utm_source=share_petition&utm_medium=custom_url&recruited_by_id=bfa409b0-83d9-11e7-a870-d965314abdd4.