New 'banking hub' will be set up in Havant town centre - what is it and how does it work?

The banking hub is a scheme operated by Cash Access UK, which is trying to keep banks alive in our high streets. Since 2015, more than 6,600 bank branches have closed across the UK, with sites in Fareham, Havant and Southsea among those affected in recent years.

Now, Havant town centre will be receiving one of these banking hubs, which will ensure everyday banking services remain in the high street in the years to come.

Once open, all residents - regardless of who they bank with - can use the hub to make cash withdrawals, deposit cash and cheques, and pay utility bills, as well as having a community banker service, allowing customers to speak with their own bank about more complicated matters on specific days.

The hubs are designed to offer easy access to cash and face-to-face banking support, especially in areas where traditional local branches have closed.

Havant Borough Council leader, Councillor Phil Munday, said: “Hearing the news that Lloyds Bank in West Street were closing their doors in our town centre caused great concern, so I am thrilled Havant has been recommended to receive a banking hub.

“Councillors have worked extremely hard to ensure that this new type of face-to-face banking would be considered for all of our local urban centres.”

In Havant, Lloyds Bank and NatWest have closed recently. Cllr Sharon Collings, Reform representative for Leigh Park Central and West Leigh, was one of those who led and submitted the formal application for a banking hub.

She said: “Banking isn’t purely about cash transactions. Not everyone banks online, and many people still rely on face-to-face services for confidence, accessibility and security.

“I’ve spoken to residents and business owners who need in-person banking to manage their finances safely. Losing that access risks people becoming financially vulnerable or isolated. Securing a banking hub in central Havant is a really positive outcome for the community. It will support the high street, local businesses and residents who rely on these essential services.”

Cabinet lead for regeneration and communities, Cllr Gillian Harris, added: “The fact that such an essential service will be available in our town centre is excellent news for many residents and will be highly beneficial to our community.

“Banks are still an essential part of day-to-day life, not just for our residents but for our local businesses as well. This news, teamed with the extension of our vacant shop scheme being launched in Havant will mean that our long term plan to regenerate Havant town centre will start to come into fruition.”

At the time of publication, there is no set date for when the new banking hub will open.