Two Norfolk towns are getting new banking centres to replace banks which are closing.

One will open in Downham Market, which will lose its last bank when Lloyds closes its branch on Bridge Street.

The bank blamed falling footfall because most of its customers now bank online and said it planned to close in September, but would postpone closure if necessary until the new hub is open. 

The hub will be operated by LINK, which runs the network behind most cashpoint machines.

Eastern Daily Press: Lloyds in Downham Market, which has announced its closureLloyds in Downham Market, which has announced its closure (Image: Google)

It said it is now looking for suitable premises in the town centre.

Chris Ashton, its head of banking services, said: "We know the way we pay for things and banking is changing. Yet not everyone is able to bank online or use digital payments.

"Many consumers and small businesses still rely on face-to-face banking and cash. That’s why we’re pleased to confirm Downham Market has been selected for a banking hub.” 

The hub will have a counter service that will be operated by Post Office staff, where customers of any bank can withdraw and deposit cash, make bill payments, and carry out regular transactions.

There will also be private spaces where customers can speak to someone from their own bank about more complex issues, with staff from different banks available on different days.

READ MORE: Banks closing branches at 'alarming rate'

READ MORE: Town left with no bank after last branch closes

READ MORE:  Hunstanton Barclays set to close in April

Eastern Daily Press: Barclays at Hunstanton which is closing this monthBarclays at Hunstanton which is closing this month (Image: Chris Bishop)

The other centre will be operated in Hunstanton by Barclays, which is closing its branch in the town this month.

The bank described it as a "cashless pop-up", which will be run from the town hall where an art gallery was previously sited.

It said: "Our regular hours will be Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday 9.30am to 3.30pm.

"While the site is cashless we will be able to help customers with basic banking, such as transfers between accounts, change of address, opening of savings and ISA accounts, setting up mobile banking and amending direct debits and standing orders."