Bexley Village’s last free-to-use cash machine is set to close at the end of the year prompting concerns from businesses and residents.
Barclays is due to close the cash machine outside Nisa Local on Bexley High Street on 11 December.
The closure is part of a wider Barclays review of its ATM network, with 132 cash machines across the UK due to close during 2026. The bank has said the closures are linked to changing patterns of ATM use.
More than 200 Bexley residents, visitors and business owners have responded to a survey led by Conservative MP Louie French about the impact of the closure.
Bexley High Street is home to restaurants, cafes and other businesses and is a one-minute walk from the train station.
Conservative Councillor Cameron Smith, who is campaigning against the machine’s closure, said: “The cash machine is located centrally in the village and it’s really well-used by residents as well as local businesses. The loss would be really felt by everyone locally.
“The businesses in the village are particularly concerned about the loss of it and the impact on the high street. There are a lot of businesses who have gotten in touch so far to express their dismay to remove the cash machine.”
A Barclays spokesperson said they regularly review their ATM network, and has assured costumers that when one ATM closes, another alternative cash services is already available nearby.
The nearest free ATM machine is located in the neighbouring town of Bexleyheath. Campaigners say the distance could make accessing cash more difficult for some residents.
There is another pay-to-use cash machine nearer to Bexley Village, but residents looking to withdraw cash currently have to pay a standard charge of £1.99.
Cllr Smith highlighted his concern about the impact the closure could have on the local nightlife economy.
He said: “There are plenty of pubs and late-night restaurants alongside the strip. But starting from December, party-goers wanting to get a quick drink or get cash for a taxi home, will have to pay to get their money out.
“There is a post office in the village; however, it closes at 5.30pm most days, and so it would not be suitable for night-time transactions.”
Louie French MP, who is campaigning to retain cash access in the village, said: “We’re appealing LINK’s decision not to replace the machine. Thank you to the many businesses and residents who have already responded to our short survey, giving us the evidence needed to fight back.”
Several other cash machines in the London area are also expected to close, including those in Kingston upon Thames, Romford and Tooting.
Residents, local business owners or visitors have until Tuesday 6 October to respond to the survey and share how this closure would impact them.
Featured Image: Unsplash/Ali Mkumbwa
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