Santander has revealed plans to close 44 branches across the UK, signaling a significant transformation in its banking services amid changing customer preferences. The Bridgwater branch on Fore Street will be the only Somerset location affected, set to close on 29 April 2026.
This move aligns with a sharp decline in face-to-face banking, with 96% of Santander’s transactions now conducted online and in-branch activity dropping by 66% in recent years. The bank attributes these closures to a strategic shift toward digital service delivery to better serve modern banking needs.
In place of the closing branches, Santander will deploy Community Bankers who offer personalized assistance at Select Santander Local branches, Banking Hubs, and various community venues such as libraries and centers. These bankers will provide support including money management advice and general banking services, usually available weekly.
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The branch reductions come after Banco Santander, the bank’s Spanish parent company, announced last year plans to cut 1,400 jobs as part of a broader cost-saving strategy. Currently, Santander operates 111 Santander Locals and six Work Cafés across the UK. These Work Cafés serve as community hubs offering financial advice sessions and events to support small and medium enterprises.
While some Work Cafés, including the Oxford location, have already closed, new café openings are scheduled for later in the year. The branch closures put approximately 291 jobs at risk, contingent on ongoing consultations with trade unions. Santander states that affected employees will have opportunities to apply for alternative positions within the company.
Despite the branch closures, Santander confirms continued investment in its remaining network of 305 branches nationwide, which includes 244 full-service branches, 36 reduced-hour branches, and six Work Cafés. Thirty branches will undergo refurbishment featuring digital self-service rooms, upgraded ATMs, and improved private meeting spaces. Additionally, enhancements to the mobile banking app and telephone services are underway.
A Santander UK spokesperson said, “In response to a continuing and sizeable shift towards digital banking, we are evolving our branch network to better meet customer needs. We remain committed to investing in our branches and digital platforms, ensuring comprehensive support for customers however they choose to bank with us.”