Perthshire Conservatives have expressed disappointment at the announcement of the loss of a building society in east Perthshire and are asking the company to think again.
Councillor Caroline Shiers and Murdo Fraser MSP were reacting to the news that the Blairgowrie branch of the Yorkshire Building Society will officially close its doors on January 22, 2026.
In giving their reasons for the closure, Yorkshire Building Society state that its Blairgowrie branch serves only 0.011% of their customers and described it as being “not well-used.” They added that the decision was “not taken lightly” and say that they will be providing customers with support so they can continue to transact with them.
Commenting, Councillor Shiers, who represents the Blairgowrie and the Glens ward said: “I am very sorry to see the loss of the Yorkshire Building Society from the town. On a positive front we are seeing new businesses opening up and I will continue to do all I can to create a town centre where businesses have the opportunity to open and to succeed.
“I have a real concern about the loss of physical banking facilities which are so important, especially to those who don't use online banking.”
And Mr Fraser added: “This is another blow to the local community in the Blairgowrie area. Whilst we appreciate the reasons given by the Yorkshire Building Society for closing the branch in the town, it is sadly a sign of the times.
“We are seeing more and more banks and building societies close as many customers turn to online banking but that isn’t any solace for elderly residents who perhaps don’t have access to a computer or are not keen to conduct their financial affairs online. We are therefore asking the Yorkshire Building Society to reconsider their position.”
