The decision by RBS to give four of the branches facing the axe in the Highlands and Islands a reprieve was given a mixed reaction across the north last night.
There was delight in the communities of Barra, Beauly, Tongue and Kyle where the branches will remain in operation for at least 10 months – pending a review thereafter – but dismay in the remaining areas still set to lose out.
Western Isles Councillor Iain MacNeil said: “I am pleased that Barra has dodged this bullet, and also that the hours at Lochboisdale is being reprieved for the time being.
“I would hope this is not a temporary reprieve, however, and it will be made permanent following the review.”
Councillor Matthew Reiss, a former policeman who served on Barra and now represents Caithness where the Tongue branch is located, said: “This might be a glimmer of light at the end of a long, dark tunnel.
“Banks should look at the bigger picture and look after remote areas that not only serve locals but urban visitors.”
Businessman John Sugden from Beauly said: “I am pleased as it is almost hopeful. I hope that the stay of execution in that time, that 10 months, everyone can come together and find a long term solution. For councillors, MPs, business owners and we the tax payers to come together and find a way of supporting the local community.
“It’s a use it or lose it execution. It’s up to us to find a long term solution.”
Councillor John Finlayson said customers who used the Kyle branch, which included locals and Skye residents and visitors, were “breathing a sigh of relief for the time being”.
While there was cheer in some communities, it was a different story in others where branches are still earmarked for closure.
Councillor Ben Thompson was upset at the news for Mallaig, adding: “This is a real shame for the community of Mallaig. I am really disappointed it was not considered for a reprieve.
“Mallaig has a big fishing industry and there are a lot of small businesses which use the bank for cash transactions, to its loss will be huge.”
