A new banking hub was officially opened last week in a town that had been left a “desert” with no banks at all.

The Banking Hub was formally opened on Winter Hey Lane in Horwich by Bolton West MP Phil Brickell.

But though this brings at least some banking services back to the town, concerns have still be raised by the lack of facilities.

Cllr David Grant, of Horwich South and Blackrod, said: “TSB used to be one of the main banks in Horwich and that was a kind of family bank.

“I think most people who were kids in the 80s will remember having their first account set up with TSB.”

The hub will offer a range of servicesThe hub will offer a range of services (Image: Office of Phil Brickell MP)

He added: “But for the other banks, its still a fantastic positive.

“It’s a good facility, its good to see in the town because we’ve been a bit of a desert for banks recently.”

Cllr Grant said that while many people now used online banking services and apps, it was important to still have physical spaces were people could withdraw money and use services.

A temporary banking hub had been opened in Horwich before the new permanent one was set up.

The hub has brought banking back to HorwichThe hub has brought banking back to Horwich (Image: Office of Phil Brickell MP)

Horwich’s final bank, a branch of NatWest, had closed in July this year while Barclays, Royal Bank of Scotland and TSB have all shut branches as well in recent years.

The new banking hub was set up by Cash Access UK and the Post Office.

Bolton West MP Phil Brickell said: “The Banking Hub is a fantastic community asset for local people and businesses which allows over-the-counter postal services as well as in-person banking, with one of the high street banks on-site Monday-Friday.

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“The previous, temporary site was next to my campaign office and I’ve got to know the team, Jackie, Ghulum and Robina, well over the last six months.

“They’re caring, patient and offer an excellent service.

“Thank you to Post Office and Cash Access for making this happen.”

The hub will offer counter services operated by the Post Office where customers of major banks can carry out regular cash transactions and will be open from Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.