In response to the closure of NatWest in Eastcote last month, I put forward a case for a banking hub at the Post Office on Field End Road, with support from manager Jay. Regrettably, LINK - the body responsible for ensuring sufficient access to cash - have rejected the application based on the following: 

There remain a number of facilities where residents and businesses can access cash within 1 mile of Eastcote High Street.

The closest bank – HSBC in Ruislip – can be reached in 4 minutes by train (additional services cannot be recommended where a bank branch can be reached within 15 minutes on public transport). 

There have not been any significant changes in the community since the last review took place.

Following this, I spoke with Adam Wilkinson, Senior Public Affairs Manager at LINK, which was an opportunity to question the extent to which constituency-specific factors had been considered as part of the review process. As expected, there was an answer for everything, and an assurance that all components - including local demographics - had been taken into account. 

I am sure that residents and businesses who would benefit from a banking hub will share my disappointment with this outcome. I am keen to hear about your experiences - wherever you are based in Ruislip, Northwood and Pinner - with access to cash, business banking and the limitations of post office banking. Please get in touch with my office if you would be willing to share your views. Tel: 0203 545 2462 or david.simmonds.mp@parliament.uk