NatWest and Santander will be axing a combination of 17 bank branches off UK high streets this week, with today being the last day of operation for two NatWest branches. It comes as the major banks continue to roll out their mass closures this month, as they seek to reduce their branch networks, resulting in more and more people opting to use digital and online banking methods.

Banking firms have faced significant backlash for the ongoing closures, as concerns have been raised for older and vulnerable customers. However, banks have reassured customers that alternatives, such as banking hubs and community bankers, will be provided to ensure people still receive the support they need.

A Santander spokeperson said: “In response to a continuing and sizeable shift towards customers using digital banking, we are making changes to our branches to better support customers.

“We will continue to invest in both our branch network – comprising of full-service branches, counter-free branches, reduced-hour branches, Santander Locals, and our increasingly popular Work Cafés – as well as our digital banking services, so we can be there to support our customers however they choose to bank with us.”

NatWest said that “there is more demand for mobile and online services”, but the bank will also be offering Community Bankers, and Mobile Banks to allow those impacted by closures to recieve the support they need.