Murdo Fraser MSP has expressed his concern at the announcement that there will be no banks in Highland Perthshire once Bank of Scotland close its Pitlochry branch in October.
The Scottish Conservative politician was reacting to the news that a Cash Access Assessment Outcome, carried out by LINK once it is decided to close a bank branch, stated that they will not recommend any new banking services for the local area.
LINK state this is because their assessment shows there are already cash access services and facilities within a 3-mile radius which are suitable for the needs of the local area. As a result, Mr Fraser is calling for a banking hub for Highland Perthshire.
Commenting, Mr Fraser said: “This is extremely disappointing news and I’m sure will be met with anger and concern from many residents in Pitlochry and across Highland Perthshire. It means that there will be no banking facility at all in the town from October and it will also force residents to travel to Perth to their banking.
“Sadly, it is a sign of the times, with banks blaming the move to close branches on changes in customer practices, with more people turning to online banking. However, this doesn’t bring any solace to residents, particularly in areas such as Highland Perthshire, where having a bank branch is very useful and, in some cases, a necessity due to travelling difficulties or their rural location. LINK have said Pitlochry residents can use cash machines in the vicinity but that is no substitute for a bank branch.”
Mr Fraser continued: “This move highlights the lack of logic in saying there is no case for a banking hub in Highland Perthshire. Rest assured I will be contacting LINK to make the case for a banking hub in Highland Perthshire.”
The Bank of Scotland branch in Pitlochry will close its doors on October 30.
