Elected representatives express disappointment at closure of Danske Bank in Maghera

Elected representatives in the Mid-Ulster area have united in expressing their disappointment at the announcement to close the Danske Bank premises in Maghera.
By The Newsroom
Published 15th Aug 2014, 16:22 BST
Danske BankDanske Bank
Danske Bank

The bank made the annoucement today (Friday) that the Maghera branch will merge with the Magherafelt one on November 14 and staff will be relocated to other roles within the Bank.

Commenting on the announcement, Mid Ulster DUP Councillor James Shiels said: “The decision to close this branch is a major loss to the bank’s customers in Maghera and the surrounding areas. This branch has been a vital feature of the town for decades and its closure, which will take effect in November, will be particularly felt by senior citizens and by those who do not have access to private transport.”

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Mid-Ulster Ulster Unionist MLA Sandra Overend added her disappointment saying: ““It is disappointing news that Danske Bank have decided to close their Maghera branch, especially so for those local businesses in the town and for those who will find it difficult to travel to Magherafelt to do their banking, including the elderly.

“Whilst this is perhaps a consequence of the fact that more and more people are now choosing to use internet and mobile banking to manage their accounts, there is still a large section of the population who value the face to face contact of their local bank, and rely on the services provided at their branch. From speaking to locals the mood is understandably one of disappointment, as the branch has served the local community well over many years.”

DUP Mid Ulster MLA Ian McCrea said: ““I am very disappointed to hear Danske Banks decision to close the Maghera Branch in order to merge with Magherafelt.

“This news will come as a major blow to local customers; especially the elderly population and it is extremely regrettable that this action is taking place.

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“Although there will be no job losses with this move, it will create added journey times and expense for staff of Danske Bank.”

All three elected representatives welcomed the news that Danske Bank have committed to retaining their cash machine at Bradley’s Filling Station on the Coleraine Road in Maghera.

Related topics:Danske BankMagheraDUP