North Yorkshire Council

Richmond Area Committee – 29 June 2026

Provision of a banking hub in Stokesley

1.0       Background

1.1       At the meeting of the Committee held on 15 September 2025, Members received a briefing note on local banking and cash handling services within the committee area.

1.2       After consideration of the information, Members unanimously agreed to request a review of Stokesley’s community cash access needs by applying to LINK for a banking hub.

1.3       Following the meeting, it was realised that an assessment had already taken place and found that the provision of new or improved cash access services in Stokesley was not recommended.

1.4       There was considerable public interest on this matter, and the Town Council, Rishi Sunak MP and Members of the Area Committee supported a request for LINK to reassess their decision.

1.5       LINK undertook an assessment on 3 June 2026, as they had received a request for a cash assessment to be conducted, and found that there was some deficiency in cash access services in the community and recommended a banking hub.

1.6       The Senior Public Affairs Manager from LINK will attend the meeting to explain the process and the next steps.

2.0	Recommendation
2.1	That the information be noted.

Appendix A – Assessment report for Stokesley

Appendix B - Access to cash assessment process document

Report author – Nicki Lishman, Senior Democratic Services Officer