Mutual opens a new Guisborough branch

A mutual has announced plans to expand its high street presence with a new branch in North Yorkshire.

Newcastle Building Society has announced plans to open a new branch in Guisborough, North Yorkshire, taking over a site on Westgate previously occupied by Yorkshire Building Society.

The move comes amid continued concern over bank branch closures across the UK, which have reduced access to in-person financial services for many communities.

The new branch will offer a full range of services, including support with savings, mortgages and financial guidance, delivered by a locally based team.

Andrew Haigh, chief executive at Newcastle Building Society, said: “Communities deserve local, face-to-face service from their banks and building societies, and losing high street branches creates uncertainty and worry. 

“Customers tell us every day about how much they value being able to speak to someone in person about their money, how they are increasingly concerned about scams, and about the positive difference it makes being able to visit a local branch and talk to someone they know and trust. 

“Of course there’s a role for technology and digital access to support and enhance the services we offer, but first and foremost, we believe that financial services is, and will continue to be, a people business.

“We’re delighted to announce our plans to open a new branch in Guisborough, addressing the decline of financial services in the town. 

“By moving quickly following the exit of the previous occupier, we’ll deliver the guidance and support local people need, and bring high-quality jobs to Guisborough.”

Newcastle Building Society has continued to invest in its branch network in recent years, opening new sites and modernising existing locations, including the Society’s flagship brach at Monument in Newcastle city centre branches, as well as a new community partnership branch in North Shields and a new high street branch in Pickering.

The Guisborough opening aims to maintain local access to essential services and provide customers with an alternative to increasingly digital-first banking models.

Andrew added: “Alongside our investment in digital services, we remain focused on our commitment to grow our branch network. 

“Many people can’t or don’t want to bank solely online. 

“Properly staffed branches where customers are served by people and not machines are vital to maintaining financial inclusion. 

“Access to trained and friendly staff in welcoming branches enables people to make the right decisions and provides support at important moments in their lives, like dealing with a death in the family, planning for retirement, or saving for a first home.”

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