Comhairle nan Eilean Siar has called on the Bank of Scotland to reconsider plans to close its Balivanich branch, warning the move could have serious consequences for communities across Uist and Benbecula.
Council leader Cllr Paul Steele has written to the bank following a meeting between Comhairle representatives and Lloyds Banking Group to express concern about the proposed closure.
He said the decision appears to have been taken without fully understanding the realities of life in the islands.
In his letter, Cllr Steele challenged elements of the LINK access to cash assessment and highlighted several key concerns, including digital connectivity issues, the loss of 24 hour access to cash and the potential impact on local jobs.
He also raised concerns about assumptions that customers could simply switch to online banking.
Cllr Steele said:
“The Bank’s assumption is that their customers can simply transfer to digital banking, given long-standing challenges with digital and mobile connectivity I do not agree with this position.
“Digital alternatives remain inaccessible or unreliable for a significant proportion of the Bank of Scotland customer base in Uist and Benbecula, many of whom are over the age of 65 and rely on in-person banking services.
“In our meeting with the Bank, we also discussed the access-to-cash assessment carried out by LINK, particularly the assumption that alternative cashpoints in the area offer 24/7 access comparable to current provision.
“The Comhairle will be responding to the LINK assessment and is encouraging the wider community to do likewise.
“If reconsideration is not possible, the Bank must urgently explore alternative service models, such as a Community Banking Hub, to retain a meaningful and accessible presence for its customers in Uist and Benbecula.”
The Comhairle is encouraging residents and businesses to review the LINK access to cash assessment and submit their own responses if they have concerns.
Any Bank of Scotland customers who wish to review the LINK access assessment, and appeal, should go to LINK / Appeal an assessment
For many island communities, access to local banking remains a vital part of everyday life.
