The planned closure of five more RBS branches sparked a chorus of condemnation.
Moray MP Angus Robertson said he would personally raise the “big blow” directly with the bank’s bosses.
He added: “The number of recent closures in Moray has been very concerning and will have a real impact on small businesses who rely on access to counter services, as well as being a big blow to personal banking customers who now face an expensive round trip to their nearest branch.
Buckie councillor, Sonya Warren, and Forres counterpart, Aaron McLean, have submitted an emergency motion to next week’s full council.
It calls on the convener to write to the RBS chief executive “expressing the council’s grave concerns over the community impact and wider economic consequences” and urges a U-turn.
Ms Warren said: “With growth in work at the harbour and expansion of other commercial activity in the town, this decision makes little sense.”
Councillor Ron McKail argued people in his Westhill ward would be “devastated” by the inexplicable closure of a “very busy and well-supported” facility.
He said: “Particularly hard hit will be the elderly citizens who may not use internet banking and who now face a particular challenge as they have to reorganise their financial affairs.”
Unite regional officer Lyn Turner said: “We again call on RBS and the government to pause and reflect on the bank’s current path, which risks cutting too far, by putting a moratorium in place on further branch closures.”
Andy Willox, FSB’s Scottish policy convenor, added: “We’re frustrated to see RBS show so little loyalty to our high streets. Branch closures put pressure on local economies and make it harder for local firms to access banking services.”
