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More than 100 high street banks are being closed by Lloyds Banking Group. The banking giant has announced plans to close dozens of Lloyds and Halifax banks as well as some Bank of Scotland branches.
The closures will take place between May this year and March 2026, including six branches across Essex. One area has been affected more than others, however, with two closures planned.
The closures come weeks after Lloyds said it would allow customers of Lloyds, Halifax, and Bank of Scotland to use stores across any of its brands for in-person banking. Lloyds blamed the decision to shut the branches on customers shifting away from banking in person to using mobile services.
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There will be closures in Rayleigh (Lloyds and Halifax), Wickford (Halifax), Brentwood (Halifax), Hornchurch (Lloyds) and Loughton (Lloyds). Lloyds Banking Group said that all workers at the affected branches will be offered jobs elsewhere in the company.
A spokeswoman for the business said: “Over 20 million customers are using our apps for on-demand access to their money and customers have more choice and flexibility than ever for their day-to-day banking. Alongside our apps, customers can also use telephone banking, visit a community banker or use any Halifax, Lloyds or Bank of Scotland branch, giving access to many more branches. Customers can also do their everyday banking at over 11,000 branches of the Post Office or in a Banking Hub.”
A full list of bank closures in Essex and dates follows:
- Station Lane, Hornchurch (Lloyds), 11/09/2025
- The Broadway, Loughton (Lloyds), 12/11/2025
- High Street, Brentwood (Halifax), 10/09/2025
- High Street, Wickford (Halifax), 10/11/2025
- High Street, Rayleigh (Lloyds), 20/05/2025
- High Street, Rayleigh (Halifax), 20/05/2025
Rochford Councillor Michael Sutton-Wheatley (Lib. Dem.) said high street banks “play a crucial role in supporting independent traders”. They added that without nearby banking facilities, businesses are forced to travel further to deposit earnings which adds time and inconvenience.
He continued: “For elderly residents and those without access to digital banking, the loss of these branches represents a growing issue of digital exclusion. Banking services should be available to all, not just those who are comfortable with online platforms. This is why exploring alternatives, such as a shared banking hub, is essential. These hubs, already introduced successfully in other towns, allow multiple banks to operate from a single location, maintaining face-to-face services for those who need them most. If we want our high street to remain a place where all members of the community can access essential services, solutions like this must be considered.
“Beyond banking, another challenge is the shift in consumer behaviour. Online shopping has changed the retail landscape, but high streets still offer something unique—personal service, social interaction, and experiences that cannot be replicated with the click of a button. Every time we choose convenience over community, we make a decision that impacts the sustainability of local businesses.”
The local Cllr also said Rayleigh was experiencing a “transition” amid the bank closures. They continued: “While some familiar names are leaving, new businesses are investing in the high street. The opening of Loungers, a new café-bar, The Cork Dork, a boutique wine shop and tasting room, Anglo (Fresco) expanding into the old Oyster Wharf and a new restaurant and wine shop at Barringtons all reflect this shift towards leisure and hospitality. These venues bring life to the high street, offering spaces for people to gather, dine, and socialise—things that online shopping simply cannot provide.
“Rayleigh’s high street remains the heart of the town, and its future depends on the choices we make today. By pushing for practical solutions like a banking hub and supporting local businesses wherever possible, we can ensure that our town centre continues to thrive. Change is inevitable, but with the right support and a shared commitment to keeping Rayleigh’s high street active and accessible, it can remain a vibrant and essential part of our community for years to come.”
