Local Lib Dems call for banking hubs after Erskine closure announcement

Renfrewshire Liberal Democrats are urging banks and regulators to invest in new banking hubs after the Bank of Scotland confirmed plans to close its Erskine branch in January.

The closure, set for 13th January 2026, is part of a UK-wide plan by Bank of Scotland and parent company Lloyds Banking Group to shut a further 49 branches. It follows the loss of the Renfrew branch last year, leaving northern Renfrewshire – including Bishopton and Langbank – without any bank branches.

Grant Toghill, the Scottish Liberal Democrat spokesperson for Renfrewshire North and Cardonald, said the latest decision would be a shock to local communities.

“Honestly deeply saddened to see my own local bank branch close, with the loss of in-person services such as mortgage advice. Every local facility that we lose has a wider impact on other business in the community.

“After losing the Bank of Scotland branch in Renfrew last year, we have already seen issues with residents getting access to money and other banking services. The banks and regulators need to urgently deliver banking hubs for Renfrewshire to ensure that local people and businesses are not left behind.”

Jamie Greene, Scottish Liberal Democrat MSP for West Scotland and the party’s economy spokesperson, echoed the call, saying closures were leaving too many communities behind.

“Local people have seen branch after branch close over recent years. The decision in Erskine highlights the urgent need for alternatives that genuinely work for our communities.

“It is time banks matched their rhetoric about serving customers with real investment in hubs and services that people can actually use.”

Banking hubs, which are being trialled in parts of the UK, allow different high street banks to share one building and provide counter services on rotation, alongside free access to ATMs.

Headline photo: Lib Dem MSP Jamie Greene with Grant Toghill, Renfrewshire Lib Dem spokesperson