Dingwall rallying call over 'deeply disappointing' Royal Bank of Scotland closure decision
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DINGWALL has been rocked by news of the impending closure of another key facility, sparking fears of "another nail in the coffin" for the county town.
The Royal Bank of Scotland is to close its Dingwall branch on November 1, claiming it sees just FOUR personal banking customers regularly in branch each week.
The branch was used by 131 business customers on a regular basis in 2022, according to its figures.
Two local councillors have spoken out over the issue with the area's MSP Kate Forbes also lamenting the 'deeply disappointing' news.
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Local councillor Sean Kennedy said: "It just seems to be another nail in the coffin for Dingwall. The High Street just can't afford to lose another high-profile business that local residents of Dingwall and the surrounding area rely on.
"With the dawn of the benefits that could come to the area from Cromarty firth freeport, I would have thought it would be beneficial to have such a high profile bank as the RBS still in the county town of Ross and Cromarty.
"It's just wrong, considering that in the last year or so that two mainstream banks have closed in the town, and now another one. People will be forced once again to make the trek to Inverness to visit their bank. Not everyone can or is capable of digital banking."
Fellow Dingwall and Seaforth councillor Angela MacLean, who used to work with the RBS in the Dingwall branch, said the staff there have always provided an excellent service to the town.
She said: "I was sad to receive an email yesterday from Erin Campbell, the RBS local director for the Highlands and Islands, based in the Oban branch. Erin assures me that the RBS cares about helping their customers through this branch closure, and that many customers prefer digital banking as it makes life easier – easier for whom?
"The helpline number customers are asked to phone is for over 60s or those in a period of extended isolation only. There is information you will need to provide when you phone, which if you are not already a user of online banking, may be challenging for some. The footfall has dramatically reduced over the past few years and if customers wish to visit a branch the nearest one is in Alness almost 10.55 miles away. The RBS have arrangements with the Post Office for those who don’t have transport.
"As a local councillor I am disappointed that the Royal Bank of Scotland has taken the financial decision to close the Dingwall branch this November. I would like to thank all the staff who have served their customers diligently over the years for their excellent customer service , and I hope they are all able to find employment within the RBS group. The staff over the years have done a great deal to support local charities and have raised much needed funds in their own time. You will all be missed!
"This is another prominent bank that has decided to leave Dingwall and centralise their assets, leaving the town with one bank and a Post Office. It is important that Dingwall is able to encourage new business to come to the town and for us as a community to support those businesses that are already here by shopping locally.
"Many people are employed by the national businesses, the voluntary sector and by the many independent retailers who want to ensure that Dingwall is a great place to visit and shop. The independent retailers had a meeting last week and working with others want to help regenerate the town."
A stall at the Dingwall Gala on Saturday gave people a chance to put forward their suggestions, she said.
Kate Forbes MSP said: “Whilst I recognise that banking methods have significantly changed over the past decade, this is still deeply disappointing news for the town.
“Customers of all demographics must be able to access banking services, and I have sought clarification on RBS’ future plans. I do hope there are no job losses as a result of this closure, and I have written to ask what consultation has taken place with staff at what is an uncertain time for them as well as their families.”
Others dismayed by the decision took to our social media pages to share their views.
Jillian Walker wrote: "Nightmare! Where do I do my business banking now. What a rubbish decision!"
Sheena Ritchie stated: "Beggars belief as when you go in there is always a queue! They have been pushing online for years though."
Fiona Kelly said: "What next, there won't be anything left in Dingwall. It is going to be a ghost town."
Liam Christie added: "If only Dingwall had a meaningful business association then this kind of commercial skulduggery could be, at least challenged with the support of Highland Council. Sadly, still plodding about in the pond of cuts and lost culture."
A NatWest spokesperson said: “As with many industries, most of our customers are shifting to mobile and online banking, because it’s faster and easier for people to manage their financial lives.
“We understand and recognise that digital solutions aren’t right for everyone or every situation, and that when we close branches we have to make sure that no one is left behind.
“We take our responsibility seriously to support the people who face challenges in moving online, so we are investing to provide them with support and alternatives that work for them.”
On staff impact, the bank said: "Where possible, we will seek to manage redundancies on a voluntary basis but where this is not possible, we will support colleagues through our extensive redeployment support resources."
