Antrim Bank of Ireland branch to close

The closure of the eight branches will result in 54 staff being made redundant, although the bank has said there will be no compulsory redundancies and staff will have the opportunity for redeployment.

The other branches set to close are Castlereagh, Draperstown, Belleek, Castlederg, Newtownards, Maghera and Donegall Square South, Belfast.

Bank of Ireland said the eight branches did not do sufficient business to sustain them in the long-term.

Bank of Ireland closed nine other Northern Ireland branches in January 2013.

The bank will have 28 branches in Northern Ireland after the closures.

Following the Bank of Ireland’s announcement, the Consumer Council is encouraging affected consumers to proactively ensure that their bank account continues to meet their needs and provide the best deal overall.

John French, Chief Executive of the Consumer Council, said: “This announcement from the Bank of Ireland will unfortunately mean more consumers are left without a local branch and the facilities they provide.

“We have spoken with the Bank of Ireland today and understand that a key priority for the Bank is to ensure customers understand the alternative arrangements that will be put in place.

“We would therefore encourage affected consumers to speak with the Bank of Ireland to discuss these arrangements and ensure that their account continues to meet their needs.”