Overview

• The UK banking sector has closed 88 branches so far in 2025, with 83 more set to shut in May, bringing the year-to-date total to 171.
• Since 2015, banks and building societies have closed 6,293 branches, representing 63% of the network open at the start of that year.
• Lenders including NatWest, Lloyds, TSB, Halifax, Barclays, and others are leading the closures, citing a shift towards online banking and cost-cutting measures.
• Which? reports 282 additional closures are planned for the remainder of 2025, underscoring the pace of network contraction.
• Alternative access models, such as Post Office partnerships, community banking hubs, and mobile units, are being expanded to address financial inclusion concerns.