20 July 2016
Following a detailed review, Bank of Ireland UK has today announced changes to its branch network across Northern Ireland.
Having completed a significant branch modernisation and investment programme, the Bank is focused on ensuring its branch network is efficient and sustainable, and adapts to the evolving banking needs of a growing number of customers who prefer to bank 24/7 using its digital channels.
As a result of the changes announced today, the Bank will continue to have branches in twenty-eight key locations across Northern Ireland, each offering integrated online, phone and mobile banking, and complemented by experienced and professional branch adviser teams. In addition, more than 165 Bank of Ireland ATMs and 47 self-service devices offer customers fast and efficient lodgement, withdrawal and account information services. The Bank will continue to enhance its customer propositions while continuing to support the lending needs of both consumer and business customers.
Eight existing branches where the volume of business is insufficient to sustain them in the long term will close. These branches account for about 6% of the business conducted by the network in Northern Ireland.
“The decision to close branches is not taken lightly, and we understand that it will be disappointing for those customers who use them,” said Sean Sheehan, Regional Director, NI Consumer & Small Business, Bank of Ireland UK. “A key priority will be to ensure customers understand the alternative arrangements available, and to maintain continuity of customer service.”
“We are responding to the continuing shift in customer behaviour towards increased use of digital and online channels, and the changes announced today will put us in the best position to continue to support our customers’ changing needs and grow our business in the future.”
The branches scheduled for closure are located in Castlereagh, Draperstown, Antrim, Belleek, Castlederg, Newtownards, Maghera and 1 Donegall Square South, Belfast (City Hall branch). The City Hall branch premises will become the Bank’s first Enterprise Lounge in Northern Ireland, offering entrepreneurs and business start-ups free facilities and services. Staff affected by the branch closures will be able to transfer, redeploy or relocate to other roles within the Bank or apply for voluntary redundancy.
Following conclusion of consultation with staff and their representatives, the eight branches will close on a phased basis commencing late Autumn 2016, with activities merged with the nearest Bank of Ireland branch. The Bank will write to individual customers affected by these changes at least 60 days before their branch closes.
The Bank’s branch network in the Republic of Ireland is not affected by today’s announcement.
ENDS
Contacts:
Pat Farrell, Head of Group Communications & Government Relations. Tel: 00 353 766234770
Sara Holland, Head of UK Communications. Tel: 00 44 7831 718436