Moray SNP News

MORAY MP & MSP EXPRESS SERIOUS CONCERN OVER BANK CLOSURES

Moray’s MP Angus Robertson and MSP Richard Lochhead have expressed their serious concerns over the Bank of Scotland’s decision to close three of its branches across Moray in Aberlour, Fochabers and Cullen.

Angus Robertson MP said:

“The announcement of the closure of three Bank of Scotland branches is a real blow to Aberlour, Fochabers and Cullen. Banking is one of the most basic services that people need to access and we have seen the worry expressed in other Moray communities that have seen banks disappear.

“While the Bank of Scotland is putting in some mitigation by bringing in a mobile service for these communities it does not change the fact that they are closing a High Street institution and moving valued employment elsewhere and leaving prominent buildings empty.

“I am writing to the Bank of Scotland to express my serious concerns over this decision and seeking a cast iron guarantee that they will at the very least provide a mobile service of high quality that meets the customers needs as best as possible.”

Richard Lochhead MSP said:

“I was greatly disappointed to hear of the Bank of Scotland’s closures of branches in Moray, with Fochabers and Aberlour falling within my constituency.  The way we bank is changing and I note that the Bank have undertaken a full review however, this is clearly a blow for these communities and will, without a doubt, prove most problematic for the older generation who are more likely to visit branches given that they are less likely to have digital banking or banking apps.

“It is of some comfort to note that the Bank intend to provide mobile banking to the villages affected and I look forward to hearing further information in this regard, once the timetables have been finalised.”