Crieff given banking hub boost after bank branch closure announcement blow

dailyrecord.co.uk:

A communal banking hub could be set up in Crieff within the next 12 months, the Strathearn Herald understands.Although at an early stage, the idea is being explored wake of the announcement earlier this year that the town’s Bank of Scotland premises is to close in 2024 as a result of a decline in its use.The shared spaces are designed to allow customers of multiple financial institutions to use the same place to carry out everyday banking tasks, as well as speak to staff in-person about more complex issues.Strathearn ward SNP councillor Stewart Donaldson is one of those to have been in contact with Lloyds TSB, the Bank of Scotland’s parent company, in relation to the closure of Crieff’s Galvelmore Street branch – which is the sole remaining bank in the town.It is understood that all staff affected by next year’s planned closure are to be either redeployed to another branch, or to a different role within the company.The listed closing date for the local Bank of Scotland is February 12 next year, although it is to stay open until June 1 if no potential new hub is in place by the initial date.Cllr Donaldson recently visited an existing banking hub in Carnoustie – one of three already up and running in Scotland – and was said to be “impressed” by what he saw.He explained: “It all comes under a new, not-for-profit, consortium of 10 major High Street banking providers.“The hubs will be operated by the Post Office on a day-to-day basis but will not be a regular Post Office branch and you will not be able to send letters and parcels or buy stamps.“A counter service and machines will allow individuals and businesses to access their accounts, and to withdraw and deposit notes and coins.“Added to that a member of staff from