A new temporary banking hub has opened in Ashby.

The facility, based in Ashby Library, aims to 'bridge the gap' for banking services until a permanent location is opened in the town.

It will give customers the chance to deposit cash or cheques, withdraw money, check their bank balance, pay utility bills, and top up gas and electricity.

A counter service will be open from 9am-5pm on Monday through Friday.

Here, customers will also be able to speak face-to-face with their own bank about more complex enquiries, including payments, transfers, account management, and support with online banking.

A different bank will be available each day, with bankers are typically provided by the banks with the largest local customer base.

North West Leicestershire MP Amanda Hack visited the new hub along with the Deputy Mayor of Ashby, Cllr Murrae Blair-Park.

During the visit, Amanda Hack MP said: "It's fantastic to visit this new temporary facility in the heart of the town. It was vital that, while work on the permanent hub continues, local people continued to have access to in-person banking services. My office has worked closely with Ashby Town Council and Cash Access UK to make sure that happens.

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"Local residents can now access services from a range of banks, which is great news for Ashby and the surrounding areas. I'd encourage everyone to make use of this new service and see how it can benefit them, and don't forget to take advantage of everything the library has to offer while you're here!

"It's been great to go through this process in Ashby, and I'm continuing to push for similar services to be introduced in Coalville following the announcement of the closure of its last bank. I've also written to the five major banks to request additional support for residents in Castle Donington."

Deputy Mayor Murrae Blair Park added: "The temporary banking hub is a vital step in protecting access to face‑to‑face banking for our residents and local businesses.

"With branch closures affecting so many towns, this interim solution ensures people can still access essential services close to home while work continues for a permanent facility. I'm grateful to Amanda Hack MP, Cash Access UK and Ashby Town Council for working together to secure this important provision for our community."

 A spokesperson from Cash Access UK, which provides the service, said: "Our services can play a crucial role in giving local residents renewed access to cash and in-person banking services. 

"As soon as LINK announces the need for additional cash services, we start work to deliver accessible cash and face-to-face banking services in the community, with the process potentially taking up to 12 months to secure the right location that works for the community. 

"In some cases, such as in Ashby, a temporary hub is needed while arrangements for a permanent site are finalised. We are pleased to provide this interim solution for the community.

"The temporary hub is expected to remain in place until the permanent hub is ready. Once the permanent site opens, services will transfer seamlessly, ensuring there is no disruption for the community."

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