A banking hub could be open in Stokesley by the end of August, a meeting heard this week.
North Yorkshire councillors were given an update on the new service today (MONDAY) at the Richmond area committee.
The meeting was told that an initial assessment by cash access organisation, LINK, found that the town was not suitable for a hub.
But a reassessment was carried out following representations from Richmond and Northallerton MP Rishi Sunak and local councillors.
This second review concluded that the town narrowly met the requirements for a hub.
Councillor Bryn Griffiths, who represents Stokesley on North Yorkshire Council, said the decision to open a banking hub was a “big win” for those who had helped deliver the service.
He added: “Chris (Johnson, town councillor) tells me he’s already been with the LINK representative looking at suitable buildings last week.
“I understand that by the end of August, we will have a temporary hub in Stokesley. “
Rishi Sunak MP also spoke at the meeting about the hub.
He said: “The good news is they’re now on the search for some suitable premises, with a view to the hub being operational in a temporary fashion to start with, potentially, within a few months, which would be great news.
“So thanks Stokesley Town Council, and in particular, Councillor Chris Johnson, who were also very helpful in working with me on this.”
Cllr Johnson added: “We were delighted when LINK confirmed that Stokesley had been recommended for a banking hub.
“While there is still work to do before it becomes operational, this is a major milestone and reflects the strength of local support for the campaign.
“That support has helped ensure that the voice of Stokesley and the surrounding area has been heard.”
Adam Wilkinson, senior public affairs manager at LINK, told councillors the first assessment was triggered by the closure of the town’s Santander branch.
He added: “At the time when we assessed it, it didn’t meet the criteria and the threshold for recommending a hub — it’s just very marginally missed out.
“Twelve months later, Councillor Johnston and Rishi got in touch with us again and put community requests in for an additional assessment.
“On this occasion, we’ve looked at it again and it’s actually just crept over the threshold in terms of being the right size to meet the criteria for a banking program.”
The facility will provide residents and businesses with access to everyday banking services, including cash withdrawals, deposits and bill payments, regardless of which bank they use.
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