In a statement released this morning, RBS have confirmed that they will close their Alyth branch in May 2016, six months later than the previously planned November closure.
The Royal Bank have taken the decision following falling customer numbers with only 50 people using the branch on a regular weekly basis.
The branch was originally due to close in November but RBS have delayed this until next May after taking into account the aftereffects of flooding in the area this summer. RBS will introduce a mobile banking service and will continue to retain their ATM in the community.
A petition appealing the closure with nearly 200 local signatures has been launched.
Commenting Murdo Fraser MSP said:
“Whilst it is still very disappointing to hear that RBS are definitely closing their Alyth branch it is welcome news that this will be delayed until next May in order to let the town rebuild after flooding this summer.
“Ultimately, RBS have to make a business decision and as more banking services are conducted online, the need for a physical branch diminishes. However, a significant number of the population still like the option of being able to speak to a bank teller face to face and it is important that some version of this service is still retained in the town.
“There is currently a local petition appealing the decision and residents in the area are obviously still very disappointed to be losing their local branch and RBS must ensure that contingency services make up for this loss.”
Strathmore Councillor Dennis Melloy said:
“Many town centre businesses are still recovering from the recent flooding and although the news to delay the closure will be welcomed, many local people would rather the branch wasn’t closing at all.
“The last thing Alyth needs is another empty shop unit and I would hope that a new tenant can be found when the branch is eventually closed in May.
“Older residents are still particularly reliant on a traditional bank branch and I would hope that RBS make it clear to these customers how they can access bank services.”