Town councillor raises concerns over boarded-up NatWest ATM

* Councillor Damon Richards-Gwilliam at the boarded-up NatWest ATM on Castle Street. Image: Cameron Richards. 

A Llangollen town councillor has raised concerns about the future of the NatWest ATM in Castle Street.

Following a break-in early last December the machine has remained boarded up with no details being given about when it might be back in operation. 

Councillor Damon Richards-Gwilliam has contacted NatWest to seek clarification on the current situation and to highlight concerns raised by residents and local businesses about the importance of maintaining access to cash in the town.  

He said: "We have already lost our bank branches in Llangollen, we can’t afford to lose access to cash as well. 

"While there are other places to withdraw cash locally, even the loss of a single ATM reduces the resilience of our town’s cash provision, particularly during busy tourist periods when machines can run out of cash. 

"Despite the move towards digital payments, many people still rely on cash, including some of the most vulnerable in our community. Access to free and convenient cash remains vital for residents, visitors and the small businesses that are the lifeblood of our town. 

"I have been in correspondence with NatWest since the ATM break-in to highlight these concerns and I am currently awaiting further clarification regarding the future of the ATM. 

"I will continue to press NatWest on this issue and do everything I can to ensure the voices of our community are heard. I will of course keep residents, businesses and the wider community updated as the situation develops."

He added: "If residents or businesses share my concerns on this issue, or require support with local matters, they are welcome to email me at cllrrichards-gwilliam@llangollentowncouncil.gov.uk or write to me at Cllr Damon Richards-Gwilliam, Llangollen Town Council, Town Hall, Parade Street, Llangollen, LL20 8PW."