WELLINGTON’S temporary banking hub is moving to a new permanent home in one of the town’s former bank buildings.

Cash Access UK, which runs the hub, is preparing to move the service into the former Barclay’s Bank on Fore Street, which closed in 2018.

It comes after the Wellington Weekly reported the not-for-profit company were in talks to lease the building last August.

The banking hub’s tenancy in 26 Fore Street was disclosed in a planning application to Somerset Council, when Cash Access UK submitted proposals to install illuminated signage and air conditioning units at the address.

The company has said its signage would ‘pay respect’ to the 19th century building, and its Grade II listed neighbours by ‘keeping with the character of the area.’

They added the three new air conditioning units, which would be fixed to the rear of the property, would have ‘little impact’ on noise in the area.

The replacement service opened its doors to the public on March 18, at 30 Fore Street, just days before Lloyds bank closed for good.

It is operated by Post Office staff, with a representative from every bank working in the hub on a rota, so residents can speak to their own bank directly. That service is now set to move from town council owned offices to a new home in the former Barclay’s Bank.

Wellington’s mayor, Cllr Marcus Barr, welcomed the news, saying it was a ‘big improvement’ for the town. Commenting, he said: “I am delighted that a permanent home has been found for the banking hub and that customers from all banks will be able to use it.

“It will actually be an improvement for many people in the town, following the closure of Lloyds and I am really pleased the Town Council has been able to help facilitate the service by providing a temporary hub in the new offices which we have just bought from Somerset Council.

“It is good also to see another of the town centre’s empty buildings coming back into use and supporting our vibrant business community.”