Nottingham Building Society opens landmark new branch in City Centre

Nottingham Building Society has officially opened the doors to its new Nottingham City branch, a major milestone that reaffirms the Society’s commitment to the high street and its roots in the city that has been its home for 175 years. 

Located on Clumber Street, which is recognised as Nottingham’s busiest high street, the new branch - which has been designed with input from members and colleagues replaces - the former site on Upper Parliament Street, which closed on Saturday 31st May having served members for more than 50 years. 

The opening marks the Society’s first new branch in eight years. A celebratory ribbon cutting was held on Tuesday 3rd June, led by Chief Executive Officer, Sue Hayes, alongside Denis Tully, CEO of Emmanuel House and a long-standing member of the Society. 

As part of the launch, Nottingham Building Society also unveiled: 

• An enhanced regular savings product that will raise funds for Emmanuel House, Nottingham’s leading homelessness charity and one of the Society’s long-standing community partners. 
• A bespoke mural, commissioned specially for this branch opening, by local illustrator Emmy Lupin, which captures the spirit of the city. The mural now proudly hangs within the branch, reflecting Nottingham’s unique identity and heritage.
• A new branch design that has been shaped with members and colleagues to create a comfortable and attractive environment for customers.
• Live entertainment from several members of the Tuneless Choir, a community choir group led by Bernie Bracha, showcasing local talent and bringing a sense of celebration to the launch day. 

Sue Hayes, CEO at Nottingham Building Society, said: “This new branch is a proud statement of our long-term commitment to Nottingham and our branch network. We’ve been part of this city for over 175 years, and today we’re continuing to evolve in ways that better serve our members and reflect our role in the community."

Holly Marshall said: “This transformation has been shaped by the voices of our colleagues and members. From initial concept to final design, we took time to listen, test and gather feedback to ensure the space reflects the evolving needs of the people who use it, creating a space that isn’t just fit for today but also for tomorrow. Every design decision - from layout to accessibility -has been considered through that lens. 

“The result is a branch that reaffirms our long-term commitment to the high street and the community we’ve proudly served for over 175 years.”

Sally Gaudion, Chief Customer Officer, said: “This is a significant moment for Nottingham Building Society. A new branch in a prime city centre location that reaffirms our long-term commitment to both Nottingham and our branch network. 

“We want to ensure our branch network continues to meet the needs of our customers, remains highly valued by our members, and plays an integral part in the communities that we are serving.   

“We know how much our members value face-to-face service, and we’re proud to continue offering choice through modern, accessible spaces like this. Crucially, this branch has been shaped by the input of our colleagues and members to ensure it delivers what they need, both today and into the future.” 

Robin Fieth, Chief Executive, Building Societies Association, said: "At a time when banks are reducing their branch networks and leaving high streets, Nottingham Building Society's investment into its branch network serves as a timely reminder of the vital role building societies play in local communities.  

"250 years since building societies were first established, they remain true to their roots by continuing to enable homeownership, build financial resilience and support communities."   

Denis Tully, CEO at Emmanuel House, said: “I’m delighted that Nottingham Building Society has partnered with Emmanuel House. Both organisations are deeply rooted in our community, serving people in different ways but with shared purpose.  

“We are especially grateful to Nottingham Building Society for their direct financial support for our services through this new branch. Together, we are committed to supporting the financial wellbeing of Nottingham’s communities. This beautiful new branch stands as a visible symbol of the optimism we all share for the future of our city.” 

A branch designed with the community, for the community 

The new Clumber Street branch represents a bold step forward for Nottingham Building Society, bringing its refreshed identity to life in a high street setting for the first time. 

Designed in collaboration with workplace design experts, Claremont, the space is the product of a consultative process shaped by customers, colleagues and the wider community. A series of targeted workshops — involving branch members, non-members and frontline colleagues — helped inform every design decision, from layout to materials. 

Key features of the new branch include: 

• Customer-first design: Every element, from open-plan welcome zones to private consultation pods, has been carefully considered to reflect how people want to engage with their building society today, while remaining adaptable for the future.
• Warm and inclusive atmosphere: A homely, accessible environment has been created using a tonal green and orange palette, biophilic design elements, and soft furnishings. The goal: a space that feels both modern and welcoming.
• Accessibility built-in: The branch features full wheelchair and pushchair access, accessible meeting pods, and intuitive wayfinding to ensure everyone feels comfortable and supported.
• Sustainable design choices: Eco-conscious materials, including low-carbon Shaw Contract flooring, align with the Society’s values and commitment to sustainability.
• Brand brought to life: From vibrant digital displays visible from the street to thoughtful signage and graphic design throughout, the space showcases the Society’s new visual identity with impact and intention.
• Flexible service zones: Whether members need quick transactions, longer conversations, or digital self-service, the branch offers a range of service options, ensuring people can engage with the Society in the way that suits them best.
• Colleague wellbeing prioritised: Downstairs, a reimagined basement space includes a wellbeing room, breakout area, flexible touchdown zones and personal lockers, reflecting the Society’s focus on creating a great place to work.