Bank set to axe two Fife branches
THE RBS branch in Burntisland
TWO local branches of the Royal Bank of Scotland are set to close in the coming months.
The bank confirmed this week that its branches in Burntisland and Cardenden will shut in March because not enough people are using them.
But the plans have met with criticism and disappointment in the communities.
David Taylor, secretary of Cardenden Community Council, said the group had not yet had a chance to discuss the closure, but he has written to the bank expressing concerns.
In his letter he said the branch is well used by local residents, businesses and organisations within the community and that closing it would cause “great inconvenience to all concerned” and would have “a detrimental effect” on the village.
Mr Taylor told the Press: “Many local residents, businesses and organisations use this bank and I believe some people are organising a petition in the village.
“There are over 5000 residents in the village, many of which are elderly and unable to use online banking or travel to Kirkcaldy or Glenrothes to access another branch of the bank.
“It is the intention [of the community council] to arrange a public meeting and invite a senior member of the bank to enable customers to express their concerns.”
Kirkcaldy MP Gordon Brown has also called for assurances from RBS that they will do more to help people in Burntisland, which is in his constituency, to manage their accounts.
The Labour MP has written to the bank expressing regret for the withdrawal of the service and seeking these assurances for his constituents.
Mr Brown said: “It is deeply regrettable that a long provided service is being withdrawn.
“I have tried to ensure that alternatives are available, for elderly customers in particular.
“But I regret the bank’s decision to close its branch.”
In response to Mr Brown’s letter, bank bosses said every customer will be contacted with information and advice on alternatives to the branch.
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Weather for Kirkcaldy
Sunday 26 May 2013
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: 8 C to 17 C
Wind Speed: 17 mph
Wind direction: South west
Tomorrow
Light rain
Temperature: 8 C to 12 C
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