Stevenson Seeks Assurances from RBS on Banff Closure

Banffshire & Buchan Coast MSP Stewart Stevenson has sought assurances from the Royal Bank of Scotland on the continued availability of a cash machine in Banff following today’s announcement that the bank’s branch in the town is to close next year.

The closure means that the Royal Bank of Scotland will have closed every branch in Banffshire once Banff Branch closes its doors in May 2018.

Commenting, Stewart Stevenson said:

“This is very disappointing news, particularly as the Royal Bank branch in Banff is an iconic building in a prime location in a regeneration town. However, the entire banking industry is being affected by huge changes in how people do their banking, with more and more people opting to do this online instead of visiting their local branch.

“There will always be a need for some personal and business customers to conduct some banking face-to-face and the Royal Bank will be introducing a mobile service to Banff, similar to that which operates elsewhere. I will be writing to the Bank asking that they make the details of this arrangement public as soon as possible in order that people can make an informed choice about whether to stick with the new service, or to support one of the remaining banks in the town.

“I will also be seeking an assurance on the availability of the cash machine. When the Clydesdale Bank closed in Banff a few months ago, the ATM was removed. RBS should work with other local businesses and find a location for their ATM which is convenient for customers and can potentially benefit another business.”