Bank of Scotland Closures - Consultation
As you may already know, the Bank of Scotland recently announced that they will be closing their branch in Bridge of Weir and Renfrew in July 2024.
As the MSP for Renfrewshire North and West, I am extremely disappointed with this news and have since been contacted by a large number of constituents who have raised various concerns about the impact that this will have on their banking experience, particularly the journeys that they will be forced to make to access face to face services.
I also worry about the disproportionate impact the closures will have on vulnerable groups who may have issues accessing online banking services, including elderly people and people with disabilities.
Unfortunately, when I raised these concerns in a meeting with Bank of Scotland, I was told that this is a final decision and that it cannot be changed - they even said that during their time of working for the company, they have not known of any bank closures to be overturned.
Therefore, with confirmation that the closures will be going ahead, it is my top priority to ensure that constituents are fully supported throughout this transition process.
I asked what measures would be put in place to support local people, to be told that an assessment which was carried out suggested that no mitigation measures are required in Bridge of Weir or Renfrew.
I strongly disagree with this and have asked that another assessment takes place, inclusive of the concerns raised by those impacted.
Below you will find a survey asking for some of your views on the closure of the Bridge of Weir and Renfrew branches. I would be most grateful if you could take a moment to complete this.
This will allow you to make your voice heard and will be included in the feedback for any further assessment.
Thank you.
Natalie Don MSP
Renfrewshire North and West