Moray SNP News

LOCHHEAD SECURES TALKS FOR COMMUNITIES OVER MORAY BANK CLOSURES

Moray’s MSP has today had discussions with the Bank of Scotland over proposals to close banks in Lossiemouth and Keith.

Richard Lochhead MSP held talks with David Martin (Group Public Affairs for Scotland) where he conveyed the concerns of local communities in Moray affected by the recent announcement by the Lloyds Banking Group.

Mr Lochhead secured an agreement from the bank to meet with him and community representatives from Lossiemouth and Keith.

Richard Lochhead MSP said:

“The plans to close the Bank of Scotland branches in Lossiemouth and Keith are a real blow to the local communities, and there’s particular concerns in Lossiemouth as this is the last remaining bank in the town.

“During my talks with the Bank of Scotland I made it clear that there’s real opposition to the closures in Keith and Lossiemouth, and I urged the bank to respond to that strong feeling by reconsidering their plans to close these branches.  The closure of these banks will have a real impact on those who rely on face to face banking, as well as our local businesses who need access to banking services within the local community.

“With regards to Lossiemouth, it is especially difficult to understand why the Bank of Scotland would close the last bank in the town at a time when we’re set to see economic activity and the community grow substantially with the expansion of RAF Lossiemouth.

“Whilst we have an uphill struggle to persuade the bank to reverse this decision, I’m pleased that Lloyds Banking Group have agreed to meet with myself and community representatives from Keith and Lossiemouth in early December, which gives us an opportunity to put forward our strong case for keeping these branches open.”