Four Belfast branches part of Ulster Bank closures
The bank is closing a total of nine branches in October, as part of a reform of services.
Last updated 9th Mar 2017
Among the outgoing branches are Boucher Road, Antrim Road, Woodstock Road, Belfast, Newtownbreda, Monkstown, Kircubbin and Garvagh. Â
It is not yet clear if any job losses will accompany the closures.
Ulster bank made the announcement this afternoon citing digital technology as the reason customers no longer use branch services.
Managing Director, Sean Murphy said new digital services will soon be rolled out.
"Closing a branch is never an easy decision and one we do not take lightly." He said.
He added: "Recognising that customers expect different services from their bank, we continue to invest in a range of channels to improve access in a sustainable way, such as our Bank on Wheels, 24/7 telephone banking and our services available through the Post Office." Â
"Ulster Bank still retains Northern Ireland’s largest bank branch network and its only Bank on Wheels service, as well providing ongoing education for customers in how to make best use of these services.
"We will also be introducing additional digital and community support roles to assist with this transition."
The head of personal banking here said customers will soon be advised by the bank. Â
"In line with the industry-agreed UK protocol on branch closures, we are writing to customers of these branches to inform them of alternative branch locations in their area and the range of banking services available on their mobiles, online, telephone and in post offices." Commented Sean Murphy.Â
"We are also communicating directly with staff in those affected branches." He added