LOCAL MSP CONDEMNS DALKEITH CLYDESDALE BRANCH CLOSURES

Colin Beattie, MSP for the Midlothian North and Musselburgh constituency, today condemned the forthcoming closure of the Clydesdale Bank branch in Dalkeith.  The Clydesdale Bank has announced that the Dalkeith branch, along with 39 other of their branches, will be closing due to a transformation in their banking practices. 

The bank has stated that customers will now have to either travel to the Musselburgh branch, use online banking, or go to the local post office. 

Concerned with this news, Mr. Beattie said:

“It is unacceptable that the closest branch will now be Musselburgh. This will be an inconvenience to customers, particularly elderly ones.  A trip to Musselburgh would cause real problems to customers of the bank who have mobility issues or who do not have access to transportation.

“I understand that customers can now go to the local post office, but that’s simply not the same as a bank. Online banking is all fine and well, but people need to have confidence in the system.  Further, many people still do not have a PC, let alone internet access.

“Additionally, what about the staff of the Dalkeith branch.  With this closure, some people may find themselves without a job, creating issues not only for those who frequent the bank, but for those working there as well. 

“I strongly urge Clydesdale Bank to reconsider the effect that this closure will have on the town and encourage them to rethink its decision.”  

Mr. Beattie has launched a motion at the Scottish Parliament highlighting this issue.  The full motion is below.
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Motion Number: S5M-03513
Lodged By: Colin Beattie
Date Lodged: 19/01/2017

Title: Nationwide Closure of Clydesdale Bank Branches

Motion Text:
That the Parliament notes with concern the forthcoming closures of 40 Clydesdale Bank branches across Scotland; understands that the closure of the Dalkeith branch will result in Dalkeith customers having to travel to Musselburgh for their nearest Clydesdale Bank branch; considers that this situation will be similar for several other parliamentary constituencies across Scotland; considers that this decision will have an impact on older people, those with mobility issues, and those without regular internet access to use online banking facilities; further notes with concern that approximately 200 staff members will be adversely affected by this decision, and urges the Clydesdale Bank to reconsider its decision.