Plea for ‘vital’ Ballynahinch banking hub

Plea for ‘vital’ Ballynahinch banking hub

6 November 2024

CALLS have been issued for a new banking hub in Ballynahinch.

A similar facility opened recently in Comber and work is underway to provide a new banking hub in Newcastle.

Strangford MLA Nick Mathison and Rowallane councillors Tierna Howie and David Lee-Surginor are leading the call for a banking hub in the market town and made contact with the company which provides such facilities.

There are no bank branches in the town’s Main Street and, up until recently, no cash dispensing machine.

The Alliance politicians made contact with Cash Access UK (CAUK) — which has developed banking hubs in Kilkeel and Comber and about to open one in Newcastle — to explore the potential for expanding this model to other areas. 

CAUK advised that they submit a formal community request through LINK, whose assessments help inform CAUK’s decisions on future banking hub locations.

“Local community cash provision is essential for residents,” said Mr Mathison. “I have worked alongside CAUK to establish a banking hub in Comber, which is set to open in a few weeks. 

“The banking hub model offers a rotational schedule where high street banks can serve customers in person, ensuring communities retain access to essential banking and cash services. 

“With no local banks in Ballynahinch, a banking hub here would be a vital resource for the community.”

Cllr Howie said cash provision in Ballynahinch has been limited.

“Banking hubs have seen great success in other areas which is why I submitted the request to LINK. I am hopeful that CAUK will give this careful consideration to help meet our community’s needs.”

Cllr. Lee-Surginor said securing accessible banking services in Ballynahinch would be a “lifeline” for residents and businesses. 

He added: “Many people, especially older residents and small business owners, still rely on cash and in-person banking. 

“We need to prioritise equitable access to banking for all, and I’m optimistic this cash review will highlight the need for a banking hub in Ballynahinch.”