A new bank branch is coming to a Kent shopping centre.

Barclays will open a new, full-service branch to serve Medway at Dockside, Chatham, in autumn this year.

The bank will take over the Clarks unit after the shoe shop relocated and reopened within the centre in May.

The store will be remodelled to suit the bank, including the addition of an ATM at the front of the unit.

Barclays’ new branch will offer a comprehensive range of banking services, including personal and business banking, financial advice, and modern digital banking solutions.

It says the businesses, residents, and the 12,000 students across four universities in the Medway area will be able to receive accessible financial services from the new location.

Barclays has submitted an application to Medway Council’s planning department in April to make alterations to the unit, including sliding doors, a new facade and security measures.

But it already has permission for the alterations for the bank to enter the unit.

This is part of a number of changes currently occurring at Dockside, with new stores taking up spaces in the popular shopping centre.

Dockside is undergoing a strategic shift from its former outlet routes to become a mixed-use destination for retail, dining, entertainment, as well as business and community services.

Peter Everest, managing director of WD Ltd., which owns Dockside, said: “Barclays’ arrival here at the heart of Chatham Maritime reinforces our vision of an all-day waterfront destination combining brilliant brands and everyday convenience to cater for the needs of the Chatham and wider Medway region.

“Barclays will play a key role in supporting the local economy and enhancing convenience for our visitors, while its prominent location at the front of the scheme, alongside other leading brands, will further elevate the Chatham Maritime experience.”

The Barclays is to open in the Autumn to serve customers across Medway and the nearby area.