Thetford local's anger over former Barclays 'left to rot'

The banking giant announced last year that its Bridge Street, Thetford, location would close in November after it was revealed only 15 customers regularly visited the branch in person, leaving the branch empty. 

But now locals fear the empty unit will fall into dereliction as the unprotected facade is repeatedly vandalised and abused, creating an ugly scar on the town. 

The former Barclays in Bridge Street has been vandalised (Image: Richard Smith)

"It's the first thing visitors see when they arrive by bus," said Richard Smith, 41, who has lobbied councillors to address the issue since September. 

"Since Barclays shut, the building has not been secured or put back on the market for lease.

Richard Smith, a charity operations manager, has raised the issue of the former Barclays for several months (Image: Richard Smith)

"Subsequently, windows have been smashed, gates ripped down and several squatters have taken up residence.

"As the colder months approach, and with no intervention from the council, it's obvious this will only get worse.

Windows have been smashed and gates ripped down (Image: Richard Smith)

"Having reported this to all Breckland, South Norfolk and Norfolk County Council in September, it's shocking to see its continued decline."

Mr Smith compared its situation with the former Cottage Hospital site on Earls Street which was "left to ruin" following its closure and became a public health hazard, necessitating its demolition for private housing use.

"I fear this is the same plan for the Barclays site," he added.

Locals are afraid the site will fall into dereliction (Image: Richard Smith)

Councillor Sarah Suggitt, executive member for strategic planning at Breckland Council said: "The issue of vandalism and the deterioration of the building is something we take very seriously.

"Council officers were called to assess the building and no immediate safety issues were realised. It is, however, evident that the building needs securing and requires attention."

It is believed the landlord has a court order to evict some squatters from the building who are allegedly causing some of the damage. He has been approached for comment.

Sarah Suggitt said the council is taking the issue very seriously (Image: Breckland Council)

The news comes as banking firms across the country have reported seeing in-person customer bases falling due to the rise of online banking. HSBC, Natwest and Lloyds TSB are among others who have closed branches in Norfolk in recent months. 

Ms Suggitt added: "We are also trying to actively combat the issue of high street closures.

"We're working with national partners to bring back a community bank to Watton and ensure we continue to get banking provision in Breckland towns.

"We are also continuing to fund our Breckland Meanwhile programme to ensure new startups can gain a helping hand in starting on the high street as part of our wider package of support for ongoing regeneration in towns including Thetford."