Bank of Scotland will close two branches in Renfrewshire, it has been announced.
The news was confirmed by MP Gavin Newlands who was informed by the bank. He has described it as ‘ beyond disappointing’.
The branch in Bridge of Weir is expected to close on 1st July and the Renfrew branch on 4th July.
On social media, Mr Newlands said: “I have just received the beyond disappointing news that the Bank of Scotland will be closing two branches within my constituency.
“The branch in Bridge of Weir will close on July 1st and the Renfrew branch on July 4th. I am aware that this news will come as a huge disappointment to customers in these areas, I have been told that all customers who use these branches will receive a letter with details of alternative ways they can bank. Which, for most, obviously won’t be in an actual bank.
“I have also been informed that current staff who work in these branches will be offered positions at alternative branches or other positions within the business.”
He added: “Their decisions are inexplicable to me and will leave my constituency of 70,000 plus people with just one bank branch in Erskine. Renfrew, a growing town of 25000 people, will now have no bank branches whatsoever.
A Lloyds Banking Group spokesperson said: “The way customers choose to bank with us has changed rapidly in recent years, and we now offer a wide range of options for their everyday banking needs.
“This includes our mobile app, online and over the phone.
“Customers can also bank with us through the Post Office, in a Banking Hub, or by speaking to a Community Banker.”
MSP for Renfrewshire North and West, Natalie Don, said: “This is extremely disappointing news for both Bridge of Weir and Renfrew, with little notice given from the Bank of Scotland that they are closing their branches in both communities in July 2024.
“These closures will have an impact on residents and local businesses who rely on in-person banking and will inevitably hit our elderly and vulnerable the hardest, who may not use, or have access to online services or are unable to travel outwith their communities to access a bank.”
“I will be meeting with the Bank of Scotland immediately to discuss this decision. I will be urging them to reconsider this decision and, at the very least, seeking assurances on any measures they plan to put in place to support their customers.”
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