A Highlands and Islands MSP has been left disappointed by the TSB’s decision to press ahead with the closure of its Tain branch in June.
Rhoda Grant had hoped the branch may get a stay of execution during the coronavirus lockdown. Clydesdale Bank announced it had delayed the proposed shutting of its Dingwall branch until further notice as a result of the pandemic.
However TSB told the Labour MSP it had reviewed a range of factors on the viability of the branch, while ensuring it can continue to support customers in Tain after the closure.
In a letter it said: “I appreciate your concerns on the impact this will have on the local community, particularly given the ongoing Coronavirus crisis which has seen an even lower level of footfall in the branch and an uplift in customers registering for online and mobile banking.”
TSB said it was contacting customers to help them use other banking options.
Mrs Grant said: “It is such a pity that banks will not invest in local communities, especially at a time when people will probably be staying local much more and for the foreseeable future.
“As both Governments keep telling us conquering Coronavirus will be a marathon and not a sprint and I was hoping that banks could see some worth in keeping staff and customers in smaller areas.”
