A Telford bank which is closing tomorrow over safety fears could open a new branch once regeneration plans for the town come to fruition, it was revealed today.

Lloyds TSB in Dawley High Street had come to the decision to close the branch after it had become “difficult to guarantee the safety of staff and customers” following a raid.

Bank officials carried out a security review which showed there was “limited scope” to upgrade the branch. Now Telford & Wrekin Council and Lloyds TSB have agreed a series of measures to help to provide a level of banking service for Dawley. 

Council leader Andrew Eade and Dawley councillors met with bank representatives to agree a way forward following the bank’s closure decision in December.

And it includes a commitment to look at the possibility of opening a new branch in the town as the council’s regeneration of Dawley moves forward.

The bank has also submitted a planning application for a secure 24/7 cash machine in the High Street, which could be installed by the end of March subject to planning permission.

Councillor Eade said: “While I will be very sad to see the Dawley branch close, I am pleased the bank has taken on board some of the concerns expressed by residents, businesses and the council. 

“These measures will help soften the blow that the Dawley branch closure will no doubt have on the local community. I am also pleased that the bank has committed to looking at a possible return to Dawley.”