TWO new cashpoint machines could soon be installed in Bradford on Avon town centre to help busy shoppers and visitors who wish to withdraw money following the closure of the town's last bank.

The move could help to provide a boost to business and trade in the town from local residents and tourists shopping and eating out.

Bath businessman Warren Jones says he has already gained approval to locate a 24-hour ATM through the wall at Carter & Harding opticians in The Shambles.

He is also seeking planning permission to locate a second cashpoint next to the Bradford on Avon taxi office in Station Approach, close to the railway station.

“They will be free to use and hopefully will increase footfall and help the businesses on that side of the town centre,” he said.

The move has been welcomed by Bradford on Avon councillors who are keen to increase trade and tourism in the town.

Cllr Alex Kay, chair of the town’s planning and environment committee, said: “I think the town will be delighted to have cashpoint services here again after the unfortunate closure of the bank in May.

“The cash point required planning in The Shambles, to ensure that the fabric of the building is not negatively impacted as it is to be installed in a listed building.

“We are happy to see this approved as it will be a benefit to Bradford on Avon residents and visitors alike, as well as the business community.”

Bradford on Avon Mayor, Cllr David Garwood, who chairs the town’s business and tourism committee, said: “I am delighted to see the proposed installations of ATMs in both the Shambles and at the station.

“I am currently conducting an audit of the empty shops in town and, during discussions with retailers, many have commented on how their shop takings have fallen since the departure of Lloyds and the cash machine.

“I am, therefore, very pleased that Warren's application to install an ATM in a listed building has been approved by our Planning Committee as this will help both businesses and those visiting our beautiful town."

Mr Jones’ company, Sires Property, is a property management company based in Bath. The company is the landlord for the Carter & Harding premises at 9-10 The Shambles.

The company was approached by ATM provider, YourCash Ltd of Milton Keynes, who have agreed to provide the first cashpoint for The Shambles.

Mr Jones said: “It is likely to take two to three months to get the cashpoint installed if all goes well. YourCash will handle all aspects of filling and servicing the machine.”

There is currently no cashpoints in the town centre following the decision by Lloyds Bank to close its branch in Church Street.

The nearest cashpoints are at the Texaco Garage on Trowbridge Road and a 24-hour cashpoint at the Sainsbury’s superstore on the edge of the town.

It is understood the former Lloyds Bank cashpoint used to handle up to 12,000 transactions a month before it was removed.

Mr Jones says he is expecting the new 24-hour cashpoint in The Shambles to handle between 6,000 and 10,000 transactions a month.