Lloyds Bank has confirmed the permanent closure of five more physical branches this week, as the wider Lloyds Banking Group continues its strategic shift in response to evolving customer preferences. This latest round of closures forms part of a broader, long-term trend reshaping the UK's high street banking landscape.
A Wider National Trend in Banking
The decision reflects a significant change in how the public manages their finances. According to data from the consumer champion Which?, more than 6,600 bank and building society branches have shut their doors across the country since the beginning of 2015. This move by Lloyds is a clear indicator of the accelerating transition away from traditional in-person services.
Official Statement on Changing Habits
A spokesperson for Lloyds Banking Group, which also owns Halifax and Bank of Scotland, emphasised the shift towards digital platforms. "The way people are banking has changed, with over 21 million customers choosing apps to manage their money," the representative stated.
The group highlighted the alternative services available to customers, noting: "Alongside our app, our customers can use any Lloyds, Halifax or Bank of Scotland branch, the Post Office or banking hubs for their everyday banking, and deposit cash at over 30,000 PayPoint locations."
Full List of This Week's Closures
The five Lloyds Bank branches scheduled for closure this week are:
- Lewes - Closed on January 19
- Swadlincote - Closed on January 20
- Penzance - Scheduled for closure on January 21
- Petersfield - Scheduled for closure on January 21
- Hedge End - Scheduled for closure on January 21
Part of a Larger Closure Programme
These latest closures are not isolated incidents. Earlier in 2026, Lloyds Banking Group had already confirmed plans to shutter a total of 71 locations across its various brands throughout the year. This underscores a concerted, group-wide strategy to adapt its physical footprint in line with modern banking behaviours.
The continued reduction in branch networks presents ongoing challenges for local communities, particularly for those less comfortable with digital services. However, the banking group maintains that the expansion of alternative access points, such as Post Office counters and dedicated banking hubs, aims to mitigate the impact on everyday financial transactions for all customers.
