A temporary banking hub is set to open in Royston almost a year on from when one was first promised.

Plans for a banking hub were first on the table following the closure of a number of high street bank branches in the town, with North Herts councillors for Royston, the current North East Herts MP Chris Hinchliff and former MP Sir Oliver Heald, all backing the idea.

Royston Town Council and North Herts Council have worked together with Cash Access UK to arrange the hub to be set up in the annexe at the back of the town hall - which already houses the Citizens’ Advice.

Royston Town Mayor Cllr John Rees said: “I am delighted that Royston residents will have a temporary Banking Hub open before the last bank in town finally closes its doors and I look forward to a more permanent arrangement in due course.”

Cash Access UK, a not-for-profit organisation set up by nine major banks to protect nationwide access to cash, will be managing the temporary hub while working on finding a permanent location.

Cllr Tamsin Thomas, executive member for enterprise and arts at North Herts Council, said: “We understand how important access to banking services is for our community, especially in times of change.

"By working together we’re ensuring that residents and businesses continue to have convenient access to essential financial services."

There will also be a community banker service where customers can discuss more complicated issues with their bank.

The hub, which will be open five days a week, is due to open in mid September.