Castle Street bank ‘no longer sustainable’

Alliance MLA Stewart Dickson at the First Trust Bank in Carrick. INCT 41-758-CON

East Antrim MLA Stewart Dickson made the allegation after meeting with Des Moore, head of the bank, over the move to shut the premises in December and transfer customers to Glengormley.

Mr Dickson said: “The move of accounts to Glengormley will be a massive blow to personal banking customers, especially those without their own transport.

“There is no direct public transport to Glengormley and to get there customers will have to use two trains or buses there and back, with any customers who are elderly or ill, this is a totally unacceptable situation.

“I consider that the First Trust is abandoning Carrickfergus completely with the additional withdrawal of its cash machine. Their offer of internet banking may be a solution for some but certainly not for all clients.

“This decision will impact adversely on small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Local businesses are concerned that due to the now enforced extra travel involved, and the expenses incurred while they have to go about their daily banking duties, that their services will be reduced and they will lose customers whilst costing businesses time and money.”

In response, First Trust said the decision had not been taken lightly and it only came after a long period of review and reflection.

Mr Moore added: “While we appreciate this move will inconvenience some customers, the reality is that due to dramatically different banking behaviours this branch was no longer sustainable, and regrettably we have had to make this difficult decision.

“We have met with various members of the local community, including Stewart Dickson MLA, and we can assure our customers that we will be working hard to deliver a sustainable service in the nearby Glengormley branch. Customers are also welcome to do their banking in any of our other branches.

“We would encourage any customer who has concerns about the move to first make contact with our team in Carrickfergus who will be happy to provide advice and support about the best available options to meet individual needs.”