Bank giant can remove cash machines and signs ahead of Halifax town centre branch closure

NatWest announced in February that it would be shutting its branch on Waterhouse Street in Halifax town centre on June 18.

The next nearest branches are in Bradford, Leeds or Huddersfield.

The bank had submitted a planning application to remove its signs, a night safe and cash machines from the listed building, which has now been approved.

The bid stressed holes resulting from removing signage fixings would be filled with mortar in a colour to match surrounding stone, and the openings resulting from the removal of the ATMs would be infilled with Portland stone to match the existing stone.

Statements submitted with the application said: “The proposed works are a result of the bank’s closure and form part of essential decommissioning”.

They also said: “The changes are essential to facilitate a new use for the building, ensuring its continued occupation and preservation.

"They are minimal, reversible, and sensitive to the building’s historic character.

"The approach aligns with Historic England guidance on the conservation of listed buildings, particularly in maintaining adaptability and avoiding unnecessary harm.”

News of the planned closure has been met with dismay from residents and the town’s MP Kate Dearden, who has written to NatWest’s CEO raising concerns.

NatWest has said: “With the ease of mobile and online banking, fewer people are coming into the bank. This means we’ve had to make some tough choices about which can stay open.

“So, we want to make sure that we keep the branches people are using most.”