BARCLAYS will be closing its Flint branch later this year, it has been confirmed.

The high street bank, on Church Street, will be shutting for good on Friday, April 30,

The nearest Barclays branches that remain open after Flint shuts will be on Mold (High St) or a further 12 miles away in Chester (Werburgh St).

A Barclays document states that the decision was made due to a decline in use over the last 24 months – with more than 80 per cent of its customers opting for telephone or online services opposed to physical banking.

The decision has been disputed by local Member of the Senedd for Delyn, Hannah Blythyn.

She said: “I am extremely disappointed to hear that Barclays intend to close their Flint Branch and am fully committed to opposing this decision.

“They suggest that alternative options are available, including the Mold Branch which is over six miles away. This is simply unacceptable, particularly for those elderly, vulnerable or those who rely on public transport.

“I have asked for an urgent meeting with Barclays to ensure the voice of the community is heard loud and clear, as well as writing to the UK Government calling on them to bring an end to banks abandoning our communities, high streets and town centres.”

Lisa McCormick, Barclays market director for North Wales, said: “The decision to close a branch is never an easy one.

"However, customers are increasingly using alternatives to branches to do their banking. As a result, we are seeing a sustained fall in branch visits across the UK.

“This is reflected at the Flint branch where there has been a 13 per cent reduction in counter transactions in the two years to March 2020. In addition, over four fifths (82 per cent) of our customers at the branch are also using different ways to bank.

“We will work with our customers and provide alternative options to ensure they can continue to manage their money and receive financial expertise when required."