Proposed additions to the Harborough District Council Local List of Non-Designated Heritage Assets
Former Natwest Bank, St Mary's Road, Market Harborough
Ref: MH/010
Construction Date: 1911
Architect: Brown and Mayor
Original Use: Bank
Current Use: Not in use
Condition: Good
Occupancy: Unoccupied
Ward: Market Harborough – Great Bowden and Arden
Reason for Inclusion
Historic Interest
This bank was originally built in 1911 as a branch of the Northamptonshire Union Bank. In 1919 the Northampton Chamber of Commerce entry for the Northamptonshire Union Bank described it as 'the only Local Bank carrying on operations in all the centres of the Boot, Shoe and Leather Industries in this district. Banking business of every description transacted on the Continent and in all the Colonies of the United States of America'. In 1920 the bank was acquired by the National Provincial and Union Bank of England Ltd (name shortened to National Provincial Bank in 1924). In 1968 the bank announced a merger with Westminster Bank and on 1 January 1970 they became National Westminster Bank (abbreviated to NatWest). Banks were built in great numbers in the nineteenth century to fuel the economy. The building of a new bank in 1911 reflects the nineteenth century expansion of the town.
Architectural Interest
Designed by Brown and Mayor of Abingdon Street, Northampton, using classical design features combined with solid red brick. In line with bank design of the period, the front façade is designed to portray the impression of confidence, reliability and security. This is particularly evident in the in the main pediment containing the bank's logo at its centre along with 'est 1836' which was the year the Northamptonshire Union Bank was established.
Associative Interest
- Economic history of Market Harborough
- Banking in the town