A town centre bank has temporarily closed – just days after another shut its doors for good.

Santander in Sandgate Road, Folkestone, is currently shut and will not reopen until next month.

This is due to a refurbishment project taking place within the building which will help create an “upgraded” space.

A Santander spokesperson told KentOnline they expect to be able to reopen the bank on November 5.

“We look forward to welcoming customers to our upgraded branch with a fresh look and feel, including a new tech-table and self-serve room - a private and bespoke area designed to support and educate customers with digital banking.

“We know that the way our customers want to bank is evolving, and we are updating a number of our branches over the course of the year to ensure they are providing the services and functionality customers need.”

In the meantime, customers can complete everyday banking activities, including making cash deposits, at the Post Office located a three-minute walk away.

The temporary closure comes as several high street banks continue to reduce their physical presence, with many customers turning to online and mobile banking.

Earlier this month, Halifax in Sandgate Road, Folkestone, closed for good. It was one of 16 branches to shut across the country as part of an ongoing review by Lloyds Banking Group.

A Halifax spokesperson said: “The way people are banking has changed, as more than ever, customers are choosing to manage their money through our app.”

Santander also confirmed earlier this year that nearly 100 of its branches will close during 2025 after seeing a rapid shift towards digital transactions.

While the Folkestone branch is being refurbished, others in Herne Bay and Tenterden have permanently closed, and Dover’s is due to shut by the end of the year.