Moray SNP News

LOCHHEAD MEETS BANKING HUB COMPANY OVER FORRES PLANS

Richard Lochhead MSP for Moray this week met with the Banking Hub Company to get an update on plans to open a banking hub in Forres following the closure of the last branch in town.

Mr Lochhead met with Amanda Bell, the Delivery Director, and Anna Brady, Programme Manager, to discuss plans for Forres Banking Hub.

It was announced in September that Forres would get a shared banking hub and the company has confirmed to Moray’s MSP that it hopes to have the doors open by autumn this year.

Commenting Richard Lochhead MSP said:

“I was delighted to meet with representatives from the banking hub company and to get an update on plans to open a shared banking hub in Forres, which will hopefully be up and running later this year.

“Plans for a hub, which will be open 9-5 from Monday to Friday, will be well supported in the community. It will be a real boost for folk to know they will be able to speak to a representative from their own bank in person without having to travel to Elgin or Nairn.

“I’m told that work is ongoing to secure suitable premises on the High Street, with a preferred option having been identified. Hopefully these discussions will conclude positively and things can move quickly to get the doors open as soon as possible.

“The company has provided me with a helpful Q&A outlining how the hub will operate and the services it will provide, which I will share with the community. If anyone would like a copy, they should feel free to contact my office.”

Banking Hub Company’s Delivery Director, Amanda Bell added:

“Having access to cash services is vitally important for millions of people around the UK, particularly in challenging financial times. So, I’m thrilled to confirm that we are well underway with the Forres Banking Hub.

“Seeing the success of our existing Banking Hubs and the impact they have already had within their local communities is an important reminder of how vital face-to-face banking services are for people – from counter services to the knowledge and support of the community bankers.

“We’re in the process of negotiating a suitable venue for the Forres Hub and we’ll be updating the community throughout 2023 on our progress.”