BRAMPTON’S high street was dealt a blow after a building society closed its agency branch.

A recent announcement was made in the window of the agency, in Front Street, which read: “This agency is now closed, we would like to take this opportunity to thank all our customers and friends who have supported us over many years”.

Independent city councillor Raymond Tinnion he said: "It's a very good market town and to lose another shop is something that needs to be filled, it could be the that it's empty for years.

"I have serious concerns because they have been trying to get us to do online banking but in the countryside we don't get consistent broadband and older people are going to struggle.

"I also have concerns about mental health during the pandemic and they need social contact when people come into town's like Brampton." 

The branch was closed as part of the society's programme to close  its agency network, which is made up of businesses such as estate agencies, solicitors, who offered a counter service for savings on behalf of Furness. 

However its network of nine branches throughout the region will remain open.

A spokeswoman for the society said that the impact of Covi-19 has led to some agency partners to close their offices at the beginning of the first lockdown in March last year. 

Furness say customer behaviours have been changing for some time in a number of locations and the pandemic has accelerated this change with many choosing to transact through online and telephone channels.

Sue Heron, marketing and sales director said: “Our top priority is the financial wellbeing of our members and whilst we understand that some will find this decision difficult, we’re confident we can continue to provide a safe and secure home for their savings, providing access to cash when they need it through our branch network and also increasing telephone and online services.

“I’d like to thank our agents who have provided a great service over a number of years and wish them every success with their core business.”

“The Society maintains a strong balance sheet and is already seeing the business recover quickly from the global pandemic.

"Furness are currently bucking the national trend in helping local people with 95 per cent lending in its strive to create wealth and prosperity in its heartland.”

Last week Brampton Bouncies, based in Morpeth Close, which provides Bouncy Castle and Soft Play Party Hire services also announced that it has gone out of business. 

In a statement on Facebook they said: “It’s with deep sadness I have to tell you all, that Brampton Bouncies has ceased trading.

“We have met some lovely people during our years."