Halifax brand to be scrapped after 173 years

The Halifax was founded in West Yorkshire in 1853, granting its first mortgage the same year, before growing to become one of the UK's largest building societies. Calderdale Council's Reform leader Dan Sutherland said he was "disappointed" that Lloyds Banking Group has decided to phase out the use of the Halifax brand. "We know the Halifax brand is important for many generations of local people who care about the town's heritage and are proud of the brand's part in our local traditions, family history and Halifax's profile across the world," he said. "As Calderdale's largest employer, the banking group's relationship with Halifax as a place remains strong and enduring. "We are reassured Lloyds has made it very clear the business is absolutely committed to the town, having recently invested £116m into a major transformation of the iconic head office building at Trinity Road, to make it fit for the future." Calderdale Labour Group said the bank was "part of our town's identity and heritage". In a statement, the group said: "For generations, local people have been proud of the name and what it represents. "While we welcome the commitment to keep branches open and protect customers' accounts, many residents will be saddened to see such an iconic name disappear from our high streets."