Lloyds plans to shut another 55 bank branches

Lloyds Banking Group plans to close 55 more bank branches, including Halifax, Bank of Scotland, and Lloyds-branded branches. The closures will begin in 2023 and continue through 2026, bringing the total number of branch closures to almost 300. The branches to be closed are located in various towns across the UK, including Surbiton, Port Talbot, Burgess Hill, and Didcot. The move is part of Lloyds' ongoing strategy to reduce its physical presence and focus on digital banking. Despite the closures, Lloyds will continue to operate a network of over 700 branches across the UK. The bank has cited a decline in branch usage and the increasing popularity of online banking as reasons for the closures. Lloyds says it is committed to supporting customers affected by the closures and will offer alternative ways to access banking services.