Ulster Bank to close 24 branches
Ulster Bank is set to close 24 branches across Ireland early in 2015, despite warnings that large areas risked becoming "financially forgotten".
Ten branches in counties Antrim, Down, Tyrone and Derry will shut, with other 14 to be closed in the Republic, but no staff in Northern Ireland are likely to be made redundant, a spokesman for the lender said on Friday.
As the number of customers choosing to use internet banking over traditional offices continues to increase, a bank spokesman said in Northern Ireland only 14% of transactions happened in branches.
"Closing a branch is never an easy decision and one we do not take lightly," said Stephen Cruise, head of the bank's branch banking division.
"We continue to invest in a range of banking channels to improve access to our services such as our Bank on Wheels and our commitment to extend our services available through the Post Office this year.
"Ulster Bank still retains the largest branch network in Northern Ireland."
Cruise added that the bank was not planning any further closures in 2015 and that the role of internet banking had grown exponentially over the last few years.
"Banking has changed significantly over the last few years as more and more of our customers are using digital technology to bank with us where and when it is convenient for them," he said.
Meanwhile, a consumer watchdog warned that closing branches could deal a severe blow to the rural parts of the country.
"We must consider how local communities, especially rural communities, can be supported to access financial services and ensure large parts of Northern Ireland do not become 'financially forgotten'," said Consumer Council spokeswoman Rachael Cray.