Borehamwood residents deserve real answers, not empty promises – especially when it comes to vital everyday services like local banking.

Conservative campaigners in the Brookmeadow by-election have launched a petition calling for a new banking hub in the town. But what they won’t tell you is this: Borehamwood already has multiple local banking services – and doesn’t meet the official criteria for a hub.

A proper banking hub can only be delivered by LINK, the UK’s cash access coordinator, if a town no longer has any high street banking provision. Borehamwood still has Metrobank, Nationwide, and Post Office counters which continues to offer banking services – including cash deposits and withdrawals – to customers of all the major high street banks. Our high street and shopping park also enjoy a number of free to use cash machines.

The facts have been confirmed by Labour councillor Chris Gray, Hertsmere Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Economic Development. He’s been working with council Leader Cllr Jeremy Newmark, who commissioned an ‘access to cash’ survey covering central Borehamwood.  Cllr Newmark also met with LINK’s Public Affairs Manager last week to discuss initial findings.

“It’s so important that people – especially older residents – can access their money safely and locally,” said Bala Mere, Labour’s candidate in the Brookmeadow by-election.

“That’s why we’ve looked properly into the facts and are signposting people to the banking services that do exist in Borehamwood. It’s disappointing to see the Conservatives launching a campaign they must know can’t deliver – just to try and win votes.”

Alongside the banks and Post Office, following Cllr Newmark’s engagement with LINK, Borehamwood now also has a brand new dedicated cash deposit facility outside Tesco Extra, provided by Cash Access UK. While only available during store opening hours, it extends access to those who need it. It is open for cash deposits to both personal and business accounts.

You can find out more on the Cash Access UK website or by emailing them at

“Rather than spin a petition for something we aren’t eligible for, we’re focused on what we can do,” Bala added.

“That means helping residents find and use what’s already here, and pushing national providers to keep delivering for our community.”

Labour in Hertsmere will continue to monitor the situation, engage with LINK and others, and fight to protect access to local services that residents rely on – not just during elections, but every day of the year.