Lloyds Banking Group is set to close 48 branches across the UK - including two in Wiltshire.

The banking group, which includes Lloyds and Halifax, said the closures were as a result of a decline in visits by customers.

The announcement will cut the number of Lloyds Banking Group branches to 1,475, according to Unite union.

Unite said closing the 41 Lloyds Bank and seven Halifax branches will mean that thousands of customers will be denied access to vital services and cash.

Swindon Advertiser: Lloyds Bank logo. Credit: LloydsLloyds Bank logo. Credit: Lloyds

The union also added that closures could lead to up to 178 job losses.

Unite also said that it believes that there should be a legal commitment for the banking industry to protect the public's access to cash and in-person banking services.

Vim Maru, retail director for Lloyds Banking Group, said: “Like many other businesses, we’ve seen people using our branches less frequently in recent years, and this decline is continuing.

“Our branches remain a fundamental part of how we serve our customers but we need to ensure the size of our branch network reflects the number of customers wanting to use them.”

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “The announcement by Lloyds Banking Group of closing a further 48 bank branches is a complete betrayal of the communities and staff who have long supported this highly profitable business.

“This sector needs to start taking their corporate social responsibilities seriously and stop neglecting their obligations to their customers and workforce.

“Banks are leaving people behind in the rush to close bank branches and force consumers to go cashless to boost their mega-profits. It’s a classic example of putting profits before people.”

What Lloyds Bank branches are closing in Wiltshire?

The Lloyds Banking Group will be closing two branches in Wiltshire. 

This includes the Lloyds bank in Amesbury and their branch in Melksham.

The Amesbury branch will close from February 28, 2022.

The Melksham branch will shut from February 15, 2022.

See the full list of UK closures.