A bank branch that has served a community for more than 40 years looks set to close.

The Yorkshire Bank branch in Idle is scheduled to shut by the end of June, as part of ongoing changes by the bank to offer the most efficient services.

It is one of seven branches across the country that face the axe in this round of closures, and follows on from the closures of its West Bowling branch last year and its Queensbury, Ilkley, Yeadon and Heckmondwike branches in 2016.

The closure means Barclays will be the only bank with a presence in Idle centre, and Yorkshire Bank customers will now have to travel 2.5 miles to their nearest branch in Westgate, Shipley.

Councillor Jeanette Sunderland (Lib Dem, Idle & Thackley) said the branch was a “well used local bank”.

She said: “It’s used by many local people who will find travel to Shipley very difficult.

“I’ve been in touch with Yorkshire Bank and asked to meet them to discuss.”

She said the “prime site” had been refurbished recently and its closure would be a “blow to footfall which is so important to other businesses.”

A statement from CYBG, Yorkshire Bank’s parent company, said: “In September 2016, we announced changes to our branch network as part of the Bank’s strategy to create an omni-channel banking experience with truly integrated digital, mobile, telephone and branch services for our customers. To support this transformation, the Bank has committed £350 million over two years, embracing digital innovation, while continuing to invest in a more sustainable branch network to deliver a superior customer experience.

“The benefits of this approach can already be seen through a significantly enhanced digital offering, a programme of new flagship branch openings and an ongoing commitment to branch refurbishments. In keeping with the rest of the banking sector, we are continuing to see a reduction in branch footfall. Reflecting these dynamics, and as part of our ongoing requirement to offer the most efficient service, Yorkshire Bank is announcing that seven branches are scheduled for closure in England, including Idle. The Bank’s first priority is to our customers and we will be working closely with impacted customers and relevant stakeholders to ensure that the transition to their new branch is as smooth as possible.”

It added it will try and relocate staff elsewhere in the bank, but some may be at risk of redundancy.

Customers can also visit the Post Office in Idle to conduct day-to-day banking.