GIDEON Amos MP has welcomed the official opening of Wellington’s new permanent Banking Hub in Fore Street.

The hub had been in the former Community Office on a temporary basis since March, pending a move to the former Barclays Bank premises just a few doors away.

The ceremony on Friday was conducted by Mr Amos and the Mayor of Wellington, Cllr Janet Lloyd.

The MP told those present: “We need to refocus on making our town centres lively and vibrant, bringing new businesses in and that’s why it’s so great to see the Banking Hub opening here in Wellington.

“I’m really excited to see it happening – it’s something I was working on for a couple of years.

“Obviously, the next stop is we must get a Post Office for Wellington.

“We need to start with a Banking Hub, then get a Post Office and keep building Wellington town centre.”

Guests at the opening were welcomed by Melissa Whittaker, of hub provider Cash Access UK, who said there were now more than 100 Banking Hubs across the country.

She said: “It’s great to see so many of you here in this wonderful Banking Hub.

“I know Wellington has had a temporary banking hub since March which has been very well received by the community.

“So here we are at the permanent hub – the feedback has been fantastic, as it was for the temporary hub, so please use it.”

Cllr Lloyd said the town council has been pleased to host the temporary hub in its own building.

She said: “When we moved to Wellington 35 years ago, there were four banks and two building societies in the town. When Lloyds closed last year, there were no banks.”

“I think this is really wonderful – it’s a lovely hub and it’s right in the centre of town.”

The new facility opened for the first time before Christmas and provides residents and businesses with basic banking and cash services.

Wellington’s last remaining bank, Lloyds – situated just over the road – closed a week after the temporary hub opened.