When most businesses decide to shut up shop it’s usually through a lack of trade but for one bank in Kilburn its popularity has sounded its death knell.

Long queues in the branch of Barclays Bank in Kilburn High Road has resulted in its closure next month because it’s ‘too small’ to cope with the levels of service expected by customers.

A spokesman told the Times: “The decision to close is based on the fact that the branch is now too small to allow us to provide the right level of support for both colleagues and customers.”

With an influx of payday lending companies in the area -which have been accused of targeting the vulnerable communities- fears that users of the branch will be deprived of vital financial advice has surfaced following news of the closure.

Mike Katz, a former Kilburn councillor, said: “It is a real shame that the bank has decided to close rather than expand to meet demand. Kilburn is an area of need when it comes to f customers financial services. Having a face-to-face personal discussion on financial matters is important to businesses and residents alike.

“There is an issue with more payday lending companies cropping up on the High Street, so residents need more financial support now more than ever.”

The branch will close on September 12.

Customers are being referred to the Maida Vale branch a mile away.