Community leaders in Nairn have urged the Bank of Scotland to think again after the lender announced plans to close the town’s last remaining branch in January 2026.
The closure would leave Nairn without any high street banking service just weeks after the main post office also shut its doors.
Moray West Nairn and Strathspey MP Graham Leadbitter said he would work across parties and levels of government to explore every option to keep in person services in the town.
He warned that rural communities are too often left worse off when services are withdrawn.
“I am strongly urging the Bank of Scotland to think again and recommit to a future serving the people of Nairn with in person facilities,” said Mr Leadbitter.
“This is the kind of community that needs a physical bank presence the most and it should have one.”
SNP Nairn and Cawdor Councillor Paul Oldham said the move would hit residents and local firms who still rely on regular face to face banking.
He noted that when he moved to Nairn nine years ago there were three bank branches in the town.
“I am deeply disappointed to hear that Bank of Scotland are closing their Nairn branch which means that we will no longer have any banks left in the town,” said Cllr Oldham.
“It is going to have a far greater impact on people and especially the businesses who still rely on having regular in person access to a branch.”
The timing has sharpened local concern given pressure on alternative services after the main post office closure.
A counter has reopened within a local store but residents say capacity is limited and queues are growing.
Business owners have raised practical worries about cash handling and change supply.
Elderly customers and carers fear longer and costlier travel for basic banking that cannot easily be done online.
Campaigners say the bank should consider a pause while community options are examined.
Proposals include a banking hub model with shared counters and alternating brand staff as seen in other towns.
Mobile banking vans and pop up sessions have also been floated as interim steps.
Leaders argue that any replacement must be predictable frequent and accessible for people with mobility needs.
Mr Leadbitter said he would seek urgent talks with the Bank of Scotland and industry bodies.
He added that community groups and the council are ready to help identify premises and partners if a hub can be set up.
Cllr Oldham urged the bank to mitigate the worst effects if it proceeds.
He called for enhanced cash services stronger support for local firms and a clear transition plan.
Residents are preparing a petition and requesting a public meeting in the coming weeks.
They want clarity on the rationale for closure footfall data and what options were tested before the decision.
The Highland Times has previously reported on banking hubs in the region and will signpost any formal consultation or engagement events.
Readers can also share their experiences for our continuing coverage of access to cash and rural services.
