South Norfolk MP Richard Bacon has called upon Barclays Bank to reconsider its decision to close its Long Stratton branch, describing the bank's actions as 'hasty'.

In a letter to the Barclays Group chief executive, Anthony Jenkins, Mr Bacon pointed out the considerable growth earmarked for Long Stratton and expressed concern at the decision to close the Ispwich Road branch on Friday, September 18, which was announced last week.

Mr Bacon said: 'Barclays' decision is very disappointing and has come completely out of the blue. This move seems extraordinarily short-sighted given that Long Stratton will be the single most important area for housing growth in south Norfolk in the years ahead.

'I am particularly concerned that it is Long Stratton's older residents and community organisations who will be hit hardest by this decision.

'It is not always possible or convenient for older residents to travel to Barclays branches in Diss, Harleston or Eaton. Not everyone wants to bank on the internet or is even able to do so.'

'I have asked Barclays to look again at this decision and work with me, South Norfolk Council and the local community to find a way to keep the Long Stratton branch open.'

The bank said they regretted the decision to close the branch which was made after a decline in the overall use of the building by 47pc in the last seven years.

The bank has written to all its customers to tell them of the closure and advise them on alternative banking options.

Last week's decision to close the branch comes as 1,800 new homes are planned as part of the Long Stratton Area Action Plan.