Hartlepool hospitality boss says loss of Barclays ATM on Marina will damage economy

The ATM at Navigation Point in front of the Marina’s many bars, cafes and restaurants, was recently removed by Barclays.

The bank said use of the cash machine had dramatically reduced in recent years as more people switch to online and cash payments.

But Darab Rezai, chairman of Hartlepool Licensees Association, is unhappy at the decision.

He said: “Holidaymakers, residents as well as customers have been using that cash machine for many years. It’s disappointing that it has been removed.

"This would be detrimental to the daytime a night time economy of the town.”

Mr Rezai said the nearest alternatives are at supermarkets like Morrisons.

He added: “It would be appreciated if the banks start delivering for the community. It is very inconvenient for tourists and visitors which we all depend on.

"Now is the time when we have tourists from all over. People come by boat into the marina from other European countries and they and tourists depend on a cash machine.”

The stand alone machine has been covered up with a metal plate.

A Barclays spokesperson said: “Our customers’ behaviour has changed significantly in recent years and since the end of lockdown, many now choose online and cashless payments.

"As these trends have persisted, customers have adapted their banking habits permanently.

“Withdrawals at the ATM located at the Marina have reduced by more than 60 per cent over a four-year period to 2023, and this, together with the capacity of other ATMs and Post Offices situated locally, contributed to our decision to remove the cash machine.”