Inquiry launched into closure of more than 200 banks in last ten years

An inquiry has been launched after the closure of almost a quarter of bank branches over the last ten years in Wales.

The National Assembly Committee says over 200 banks have closed since 2008, leaving some rural communities such as Abersoch and Hay-on-Wye without a single bank branch.

It’s inquiry will look at access to banking services and the ways in which branch closures and access to free ATMs can affect local communities.

Aberaeron is one of the many towns that has been affected and some local business owners say the impact has been significant.

The Committee wants to hear the views of people in communities affected by bank closures and will also be taking evidence from expert witnesses who have carried out extensive research into the problem.