Today marked the official grand opening of the Calne Banking Hub, located on the High Street -  a facility designed to address the growing need for accessible banking services in the community. 

The hub comes in response to growing concerns regarding the digital divide, particularly for individuals who struggle with mobile and online banking after the closure of our High Street banks.

The initiative received approval last year from LINK, the UK’s cash access and ATM network. The hub was originally requested by former town councillor Michael Hudston, who played a pivotal role in bringing this essential service to fruition.

In attendance at the opening ceremony were Calne Town Mayor, Jon Fisher, and Michael Hudston himself.

Mayor, Jon Fisher expressed his enthusiasm for the new facility, stating: "This hub is more than just a building, this hub is a statement of inclusion for our community and for people who need access to financial services and it signifies ongoing support to the businesses of our town and that is something we will be eternally grateful for"

He then took a moment to commend Michael Hudston for his contributions, acknowledging: "Mike was a town councillor when he made this request, he has since stopped being a councillor but for the years he was, he did some incredible work and I wanted to take this opportunity to thank him for that work and thank him for his vision that has bought this hub to us."

The Mayor also conveyed his gratitude towards Cash Access UK and the banks that support Cash Access UK for recognising the community's needs. He added: "Calne is a town that always requires investment, and it is brilliant to see that investment manifest today.

"This hub will be a godsend for individuals and businesses alike."

Calne Town Crier Mark Wylie heralded the opening of the hub, and staff members from the facility joined the Mayor and Michael Hudston for a ceremonial ribbon cutting.

After the event Michael told us: “It is great to see the Banking Hub now open in Calne providing this very necessary additional facility, for the majority of Calne residents to access cash.

"Unfortunately, Calne was abandoned by its last bank during the pandemic and the days where banks will maintain their own branches has long passed. Banking Hubs make it more attractive for banks to have a presence in a town to provide face to face services.” 

The Calne Banking Hub will operate Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM, regardless of which major high street bank customers are with.  

 

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