Lloyds Banking Group has announced the closure of six Lloyds Bank and Halifax branches in Wales, as part of a wider strategy to cut costs and shift towards digital banking. These closures are part of 136 branches shutting down across the UK between May 2025 and March 2026. The decision comes as Lloyds highlights the increasing trend of customers conducting their banking activities online. With over 20 million customers using their apps for convenient access to their finances, Lloyds emphasises the availability of alternative options such as telephone banking, community bankers, or access to Halifax, Lloyds, or Bank of Scotland branches. Additionally, customers can utilise over 11,000 Post Office branches or Banking Hubs for their everyday banking needs.
The specific Lloyds Bank branches closing in Wales are located in Pontyclun, Whitchurch Cardiff, and Pembroke Dock, along with Halifax branches in Mold and Carmarthen. The restructuring of Lloyds’ operations allows customers of Lloyds, Halifax, and Bank of Scotland to utilise the group’s branch brands seamlessly. Despite the branch closures, Lloyds ensures that all affected employees will be offered alternative positions within the organisation. Following the closures, the number of Lloyds branches will decrease to 386, Halifax to 281, and Bank of Scotland to 90. Over the last five years, the transactions in these branches have declined by approximately 48%, reflecting the shift towards digital banking among customers.
The comprehensive list of branch closures spans across various locations, with Lloyds Bank branches such as Ludlow, Pontardawe, and Whitchurch Cardiff shutting down in May 2025. Likewise, Halifax branches in Bangor (Northern Ireland) and Carmarthen are scheduled for closure in May 2025. These closures are part of Lloyds Banking Group’s strategic re-alignment to adapt to changing customer preferences and technological advancements in the banking sector. The move also underscores the evolving nature of the banking industry, with a greater emphasis on digital channels and customer convenience.
As part of its commitment to customer service and community engagement, Lloyds Banking Group aims to ensure minimal disruption for customers affected by the branch closures. By offering a range of alternative banking options and access points, including Post Offices and Banking Hubs, Lloyds aims to provide continued support to customers in managing their finances. The closures signify a broader industry trend towards digitisation and the increasing reliance on online banking services. The shift towards digital channels reflects changing consumer behaviours and preferences, driving banks to re-evaluate their physical branch networks and enhance their digital offerings.
In response to the closure announcements, customers are encouraged to explore the diverse range of digital banking solutions offered by Lloyds Banking Group. The closures are part of a strategic realignment to streamline operations and focus on enhancing digital services for customers. Despite the closures, Lloyds remains committed to providing accessible and efficient banking services through a variety of channels. The closures also highlight the importance of adapting to evolving customer needs and technological advancements in the banking sector. Customers are advised to make use of the alternative banking options available to ensure a seamless transition and continued access to essential financial services.