A COLCHESTER bank has applied to change its signage following a company rebrand... which has sparked some controversy online.

The Swindon-based business unveiled a new look last week as part of a big brand revamp for its high street branches, website, and Pipers Way headquarters.

The white-and-blue icon of a sun setting behind a house, which appears next to the lettering has been turned into an abstract red silhouette of the same image, while the logo's background is now a much darker shade of blue that borders on purple.

A Nationwide spokesperson said: "Since we first opened our doors in 1884, we've had a few different looks, but it's time to introduce our new, modern look, built on the values you know and trust."

However, the change has sparked some complaints, with several customers expressing upset on social media about the redesign.

Many have argued the new logo is similar to fellow bank NatWest.

Masuta Sodo said: "Should have stuck to the previous colour scheme though - the new one is too similar to Nat West. I also find the lower-case trend infantile."

Lorraine Needham-Reid added: "Did nobody in your testing or brand team say how like the NatWest this was? Sorry but this is an awful rebrand."

Nathan Stacey said: "Why have Nationwide decided to rebrand themselves as Natwest? What a weird rebrand that is."

Pat Fagan said: "Reminds me of the NatWest logo to be honest. Really poor project management."

The new look coincides with an extension of the building society's Branch Promise which vows to keep branches open until at least 2026, and a new ad campaign starring Dominic West.

Following the update, the Colchester branch is set to undergo a revamp.

The application outlines plans to replace the existing projecting sign with a new 700mm sign.

The bank will also replace its front fascia grey panel with blue and replace the lozenge logo with a fascia logo with a new 560mm logo height.

The external lighting will also change to new ones, to be centred above the logo.

Nationwide Colchester will also be replacing its ATM surround and decals with new ones.

New window signage reading “a good way to bank” in line with the logo change is also set to installed.