Seven TSB branches across Fife to close

Seven Fife branches of the TSB are set to close.

They are part of a cull of outlets across Scotland, with 73 in total being shut next year.

The closures will affect some 300 jobs.

The Fife branches set to go are Templehall in Kirkcaldy, Burntisland, Buckhaven, Cupar, Anstruther, Cowdenbeath and Rosyth.

TSB said the cuts have been driven by a significant change in customer behaviour, including a reduction in the numbers using branches, and a significant acceleration in digital adoption.

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It also said the 94 per cent of the banks chosen for closure were within 20 minutes travel time of another branch.

Robin Bulloch, customer banking director, said:: “These decisions are the most difficult we take, but we must always be guided by our customers - and we are clearly witnessing a substantial shift towards digital banking.

“We operate a more extensive branch network than most other banks in Scotland, including some much larger than TSB, and we need to reduce its size to reflect the changing needs of our customers and a fast-evolving operational environment. “

He said the bank remained committed to “offering high quality banking services in branches across Scotland”and revealed plans to introduce mobile advisers to help vulnerable customers and those in rural locations.

Mr Bulloch added: “We are working to ensure the transition towards digital – which is being seen right across the economy – is handled sensitively and pragmatically for our colleagues and customers.”

By the end of next year, TSB will have 62 branches in Scotland.

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