Its cashpoints often have snaking queues, but Barclays in Rochester is set to close. The bank on the corner of the High Street and Star Hill has blamed the rise of online banking for its decision to shut on September 20.

The news will be a blow to thousands of residents, visitors and tourists – as the branch has two of only four outdoor cashpoints in the historic high street.

During the Dickens and Sweeps festivals, the cashpoints have long queues and regularly run out of money.

Baggins Book Bazaar owner Godfrey George, chairman of the Rochester Association of Businesses, said: “There are plenty of people who only spend cash, especially when we have festivals. With thousands of people coming in it’s essential they can get easy access to cash.

“We have an account with Barclays so we will need to go to Chatham or Strood, which costs businesses money and time.”

Capons Butchers owner Nigel Capon said: “We accept cards, fortunately, but they’ve got two cashpoints over there and they always seem extremely busy. We’ve got very few empty units in the High Street so it’s a shame to see a bank go. It’s not the first one either.”

Stephen Barker, who runs S&J News, is already in talks with Barclays to see if he can install a cashpoint.

He said: “From a business point of view it now means we’ve got further to travel.”
A Barclays spokesman said its branch network was one of the most widespread in the UK and sees regular changes.

He added: “ The decision to close Star Hill Rochester branch has not been taken lightly and we appreciate that it will cause inconvenience."

'The decision to closethe branch has not been taken lightly and we appreciate that it will cause some inconvenience'

"We will work hard to minimise the impact on customers and will help them with the change to ensure the transition is as smooth as possible.”

Customers can take out or pay in cash for Barclays free at the nearby post office.

He added: “We are also aware that the cash machines at the branch are well used and we are exploring options regarding this.”