HSBC say no plans to close branch after being served a notice from landlord

HSBC has assured customers it has no plans to close its Caerphilly town branch after it was served a notice from the building’s landlord.

The notice, from Bristol law firm Temple Bright sent on behalf of landlord Sambhav Trading Ltd, tells the bank to reinstate the building to its original layout and condition when the lease was signed in June 2008.

It was stuck to the building’s doors on the weekend of Saturday, December 3.

According to documents filed at the Land Registry, HSBC’s lease on the Cardiff Road building runs out in June next year – six months from now.

Asked by Caerphilly Observer if the branch was likely to close next year, a HSBC spokesperson said in a statement: “We have no plans to close our branch in Caerphilly and will continue to talk with the landlord of the property to understand any issues and come to a resolution.”

Law firm Temple Bright has not responded to Caerphilly Observer.

The bank has come under criticism last month after it announced plans to close more than 100 branches across the UK – including Blackwood.

The announcement to close the bank on High Street prompted condemnation from local politicians.

In a letter to Islwyn’s Labour Senedd Member, Rhianon Passmore, the bank said the decision “has not been taken lightly”.

HSBC said usage of its branches by regular customers had fallen by 65% in the last five years, with a 50% reduction in footfall.