THE First Minister slammed the proposal, and it caused public outcry – but the closure of the HSBC branch in Blaenavon is still going ahead.

The planned closure on May 11 has provoked fierce opposition, with a 1,200-signature petition handed to HSBC by Blaenavon Town Council in February.

First Minister Carwyn Jones also objected to the decision and raised the issue in The National Assembly.

However, the effort has fallen on deaf ears and the branch will still be closing.

Former Blaenavon mayor Stuart Evans said: “I realise the date for closure is fast approaching, and I, along with my fellow councillors, are deeply saddened that we couldn’t overturn HSBC’s decision to remain in Blaenavon.

“I feel it will impact on employees and traders in the town, and also incur cost for low-income families who will have to travel to banks outside Blaenavon, as will elderly residents, and voluntary groups who presently use the bank.”

Blaenavon Town Council has tried to make sure that although the bank will be closing, the ATM will remain, and has also looked for other banking providers to come into the town.

Cllr Evans added: “We have yet to see any firm confirmation that the ATM has had a planning application sought, as was agreed at one of the many meetings with HSBC.

“Myself and others have tried to encourage other providers into the town, and will continue to do so, but at this time we have been unsuccessful.”

The chief executive of the new Virgin Money banking group was approached and now Cllr Alan Jones has received a letter from Stuart Miller, head of branch sales which says a branch could open, but it is unlikely.

Mr Miller wrote: “I can’t make any promises about a branch coming to Blaenavon any time soon, but we will certainly be reviewing very carefully where we can make a difference in future.”