PLANS have been lodged for works to be carried out to close a high street bank.

NatWest has announced that it will close its branch on Lowther Street in Whitehaven on March 14 next year.

Now a planning application has been submitted with Copeland Council by NatWest Group, for works inside and outside the building in relation to the closure.

These include removing the external signs and the ATMs, as well as fixtures, fittings, furniture and equipment inside, which are used for the operation of the bank.

The plans confirm that the building will be vacant upon the bank’s closure.

A design and access statement submitted with the plans says: “The scope of removal work to the building will be minimal and will not affect the condition of the building. Removals will cause no harm or loss to the original building.”

It is proposed that the wall will be infilled with red sandstone and the appearance reinstated to the original form, following the removal of the two ATMs.

NatWest wrote to customers earlier this month to inform them of the closure.

Many were unhappy with the decision, with some customers saying they would now consider moving their money elsewhere.

NatWest said counter transactions in the bank had decreased by 60 per cent over the last three years.

Customers have been advised to make use of banking services at any Post Office, and the nearest branch is just over eight miles away.

A NatWest spokesperson said: “As with many industries, most of our customers are shifting to mobile and online banking, because it’s faster and easier for people to manage their financial lives.

“We understand and recognise that digital solutions aren’t right for everyone or every situation, and that when we close branches we have to make sure that no one is left behind.

“We take our responsibility seriously to support the people who face challenges in moving online, so we are investing to provide them with support and alternatives that work for them.”

READ MORE: NatWest to close branch on Lowther Street in Whitehaven