'This is an important moment for our customers and the communities we serve': Ulster Bank's parent company commits to no further branch closures until at least 2029
Move marks the end of the bank's current restructuring programme and signals renewed investment in branches across Ulster Bank, NatWest and Royal Bank of Scotland
Ulster Bank's parent company, NatWest Group has announced a commitment to make no further branch closure announcements across its Ulster Bank, NatWest and Royal Bank of Scotland brands until at least 2029.
The announcement marks the completion of the group's current programme of network changes and signals the beginning of a new phase of long-term investment in its branch network, underlining its commitment to face-to-face banking services.
As part of its future strategy, NatWest Group plans to refurbish and relocate existing branches, while also exploring opportunities to open new locations where there is clear customer demand. The investment aims to ensure customers continue to have access to in-person banking support while benefiting from a growing range of digital services.
Although 95% of customers now use digital channels for their day-to-day banking, the group acknowledges that branch services remain important, particularly during significant life events and when customers require more personalised financial support.
In Northern Ireland, Ulster Bank continues to play a major role in supporting individuals, communities and businesses. The bank serves more than half a million retail customers, representing around one in three families and individuals across Northern Ireland. It also operates the region's largest branch network, with 25 branches.
Ulster Bank is currently the only bank in Northern Ireland operating a mobile branch network, providing banking services in 48 communities. The bank also supports more than 35,000 businesses across the region.
Through its Belfast Accelerator Hub in Donegall Square, more than 1,000 entrepreneurs have secured over £40 million in investment, helping to create almost 600 jobs.
Solange Chamberlain, chief executive of Retail Banking at NatWest Group, said: "This is an important moment for our customers and the communities we serve. We are investing to offer customers a seamless mix of ways to bank with us, including over the phone, digitally and through our free-to-use ATM network, while continuing to support those who prefer face-to-face banking in branches and community banking hubs.
"We will not announce any further branch closures until at least 2029 and are expanding more flexible and accessible ways to bank, with enhanced support to help customers act with confidence and achieve their financial goals."