A bank is to close a town centre branch in spring next year.

NatWest in Strood High Street will shut on March 6, blaming the huge increase in online and mobile banking and the decline of customers using a counter service.

With Rochester closing its doors in June 2017 and Gillingham in June 2022 , it means the nearest branch is in Chatham High Street, about two miles away.

The closure will impact people living on the Hoo Peninsula where there is a growing population and no banks.

Kelly Tolhurst, MP for Rochester and Strood and a NatWest customer, said she was disappointed with the decision.

A statement from NatWest said: “Closing a branch is a decision we take very seriously. We know it can affect those less confident with alternatives we offer.

“We'll always work hard to guide and support people through the changes and find the best way to serve them from now.”

A survey at Strood showed counter transactions reduced by 72% between January 2019 and January 2023.

In 2022, 77% of personal customer using the branch also chose online banking or the mobile app.

The former Rochester site is now popular chain Chuck and Blade Burgers.

The branch, in Gillingham High Street closed in June last year.