Santander bank to close Elephant & Castle branch

Santander said: "The decision to close the branch has been taken following a full review.

"The lease at our branch in Elephant & Castle Shopping Centre has expired. Due to our landlords' plans to redevelop the entire shopping centre a lease renewal is not available.

"We have therefore taken a decision to close the branch during 2018."

According to information published on the Santander website, three quarters of Elephant & Castle branch customers already use an additional Santander branch.

The bank has directed customers to its branches in Walworth Road and Southwark Street.

In a document published on the website, Santander also highlights other local banks and ATMs. However, the TSB branch and the Tesco ATM suggested as alternatives will also disappear when the shopping centre finally closes its doors.

Delancey's proposals for the redevelopment of the shopping centre are expected to be considered by Southwark's planning committee after the forthcoming local elections.

A decision was put on hold in January after the original proposals failed to command the support of a majority of committee members.