Saintfield banking ATM hopes

Saintfield banking ATM hopes

26 March 2025

A LOCAL politician is hoping that a former bank in Saintfield could be given a new lease of life – as a bank.

Danske Bank closed its Main Street branch in the town in June last year, with the closure also signalling the removal of a cash dispensing machine.

The former bank building has been purchased by Jackson’s, which owns business premises, in the town and Rowallane councillor, Jonny Jackson, hopes that a new cash dispensing machine will be installed in the bank.

He says the closure of the ATM has had an impact on shoppers and confirmed he is in discussions with Pivotal and Jackson’s about cash dispensing services being returned to the town.

“There is a lot of interest in the potential return of a free cash dispensing machine and this would also provide a boost for both shoppers and the local business community,” suggested Cllr Jackson.

The Rowallane councillor is also planning talks with Cash Access UK which has opened new community banking hubs in Newcastle, Ballynahinch and Comber.

“A survey is likely to be carried out about the need for a banking hub in the town and I believe its provision would be universally welcomed,” said Cllr Jackson.

“Banking hubs in other parts of the district have proved popular and it is my understanding that they are being well used.”

Cllr Jackson described access to cash dispensing machines and banking services as “essential” and hopes talks with Pivotal and Access UK will be successful.

“Over recent years, a number of leading banks have closed branches across the district and the loss of these vital services is being felt.”