Residents’ dismay at bank redevelopment

All behind the counter banking services at the Central Parade Lloyds branch will be replaced by tablets, cashpoints and deposit machines.

Residents from the Chertsey High Rise Area association, many of whom are elderly and feel more comfortable using personal services, claim their needs as customers are being ignored.

Chairman Robin Sullivan, 61, who lives on Chertsey Crescent, said: “They haven’t taken their customers into consideration.

“I know they’re putting ATMs inside the branch, but a lot of elderly people don’t know how to use the machines.

“They should have personally asked the customers their opinion by sending out a survey.

“The customer matters.

“Lloyds are thinking ‘we’re not getting enough custom on the estate to warrant having staff by the till’.

“They should reduce the service but not eliminate it.”

The branch, which is the only bank within a mile of New Addington, will be closed from October 5 to 25 for the refurbishment.

Mr Sullivan says this will make it difficult for elderly residents to access proper financial services.

A spokesperson for Lloyds said: “Branches are a vital part of our strategy and we recognise the important role that the Lloyds Bank New Addington branch plays in the local community.

“We are investing in our network to ensure it evolves to meet the changing needs of customers.

“We are updating the branch by introducing new technology, making everyday banking more convenient and giving the branch a new contemporary look.

“Colleagues will remain on hand to help customers with their banking needs as they do today.

“In addition, the nearest Post Office is a short distance from the branch and provides core banking services for both personal and small business customers.

“This will be able to assist customers during the closure period with a range of transactions.”

Mr Sullivan has already written to his local MP, Croydon Central’s Sarah Jones, about the issue.