High Street Branch Reopens

Chorley Building Society has hailed the refurbishment of its High Street Branch as a commitment to the local community and economy.

The Society, which was formed in 1859, making it one of the oldest building societies in the UK, officially re-opened the branch to the public on Friday (March 14), following a seven-week renovation.

Stephen Penlington, Chorley Building Society’s Chief Executive, says: 

“We are immensely proud of our standing as a mutual society making a difference to the lives of our Members and the local community. Unlike other high street banks and financial institutions, we do not have shareholders to serve, and we’re not listed on the stock exchange. Instead, all our profits go back into the Society to benefit our Members.”

Speaker of the House of Commons and local MP, Sir Lindsay Hoyle took time out of his busy schedule to perform ribbon-cutting duties.

Speaking at the opening, Sir Lindsay said: “Since 1859, Chorley Building Society has been operating here, providing mortgages and savings for local people. Now we are seeing a further commitment by Chorley Building Society, not only increasing jobs, but investing in our high street.  This is a wonderful refurbishment, and I thank them very much for inviting me today, to share in part of their history.”

The renovation has created a comfortable, modern interior, a digital zone for access to the Society’s website and products and a space dedicated to its support for local good causes.

The Society’s ‘Chorley High Five’ initiative takes its name from its board’s pledge to give a minimum of five per cent of operating profits annually to support local charities, community groups, not-for-profit organisations and grassroots clubs, making awards totalling £183,700 over the past three years.

Locally, it is an ambassador of Inspire, Chorley Youth Zone, making an annual donation as well as supporting ad hoc activities during the year and provides an affinity account for Chorley-based Derian House Children’s Hospice. Regionally, the society is a supporter of the charity-funded NW Air Ambulance.

The first 50 of those Members attending the opening, which was attended by the Mayor, Councillor Gordon France, Mayoress Councillor Margaret France and local councillors, each received a goodie bag and the Society chose the latest milestone in its long and illustrious history to launch two new regional savings accounts.

In addition to High Street, there are two other branches, one on Foxhole Road in Chorley and one on Towngate in Leyland. The Society offers a wide range of financial services, including easy access savings accounts, bonds, ISAs and mortgages.