The only remaining banks left in two Lanarkshire towns are set to close this year, it has been confirmed.
The Bank of Scotland's Carluke branch will shut on June 27 and the Shotts one on August 15, after parent company Lloyds Banking Group say that customers now using online banking has reached an all time high.
Local politicians have slammed the decision, saying the news is a blow to the community, with Clydesdale and Shotts residents now facing further travel to access banking services.
It was announced this week that Bank of Scotland, Lloyds and Halifax will close 60 branches in total across the UK, with 19 of them being in Scotland.
Commenting on the Carluke closure, Lanark and Hamilton East MP Angela Crawley told Lanarkshire Live : “I am disappointed to learn that Bank of Scotland have taken the decision to close their branch in Carluke.
“Clydesdale can ill afford to lose another bank as customers will be forced to travel further and further for access to banking services.
“Although customers will still be able to utilise some services at the Post Office, this is not an alternative to having a real bank in town.
“It is also disappointing that Bank of Scotland have used customer data from during the Covid-19 pandemic to justify their decision despite the fact the country was locked down and customers couldn’t access their bank.
“I would strongly urge Bank of Scotland to reconsider their decision and retain their branch in Carluke.”
And MSP for Clydesdale Mairi McAllan added: “The announced closure of the Carluke Bank of Scotland branch is a blow to the community - and would mean the closure of the last remaining bank in Carluke.
“Leaving Clydesdale’s largest town without banking facilities is not acceptable. It is clear that urgent action is required by the UK government to stop banks from removing access to cash in our towns and villages.
“I am liaising with local colleagues to seek a meeting with Bank of Scotland as soon as possible to discuss next steps.”
Locals with jobs at the Lanarkshire branches have been told they will be supported and may be helped move within a new role.
Vim Maru, group retail director, Lloyds Banking Group said: “Just like many other high street businesses, fewer customers are choosing to visit our branches.
"Our branch network is an important way for us to support our customers, but we need to adapt to the significant growth in customers choosing to do most of their everyday banking online.”
Lloyds hasn't said how many members of staff are affected by the closures, but added: "We aim to support all colleagues impacted, who want to remain with the Group, with a move to a new role."
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