The MP for a constituency in Suffolk without access to a bank branch is calling for a further roll-out of partnerships which see Post Offices link up with banks to continue providing a service.

A survey carried out by Which? has found Central Suffolk and North Ipswich is one of 30 constituencies in the country where people do not have access to a bank. 

Patrick Spencer MP, who was elected to the seat at the general election in July, said he was "concerned" at the impact the closures are having. 

“Representing a predominantly rural constituency, of course I’m concerned at the impact of banks closing in our smaller market towns," he said.
The Central Suffolk and North Ipswich is one of 30 constituencies without access to a bankThe Central Suffolk and North Ipswich is one of 30 constituencies without access to a bank (Image: Houses of Parliament)

"In-person banking services can be so important for older residents who perhaps don’t feel comfortable using the internet or even telephone banking. With reduced footfall in local bank branches up and down the country, it is disappointing yet perhaps understandable that so many banks are choosing to close their high street branches.

"However the impact this has on the elderly and low-income groups who may not have access to sufficient broadband, or even a computer, remains a cause for concern."

Mr Spencer recently met Roger Tripp, who is the postmaster at Framlingham Post Office. 

A deal to co-locate services has led to continued access to banking services for residents in the town.

Mr Spencer added: "Our Post Offices are real community hubs and I would like to see greater roll-out of examples like the one in Framlingham across Central Suffolk and North Ipswich.”

Banks have closed their doors across the East of England in recent years. The survey found there are  a total of 328 banks in the region, equating to 5.1 per 100,000 people.