Cllr Donald Crichton, Chair of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar’s Sustainable Development Committee has responded to the announcement by TSB that they will close their Stornoway branch in September.
Cllr Crichton, said:
“This news from the TSB is hugely disappointing and a blow to high street, face-to-face services in the town of Stornoway. I appreciate that there is an on-going transition from face-to-face services to digital services, but it is important that we safeguard services for those whose first choice is to visit the bank and undertake their business within the branch.
“There are a range of issues to be discussed with the TSB, not least how their proposed “pop-up” service is going to operate in practice and how their video banking and digital services will operate for customers who do not have access to the appropriate technology. I will be seeking to meet and engage with TSB management to get further information and explore how the retention of branch services can be maximised.”
Cllr Crichton also expressed concern over the loss of Western Isles based jobs because of the branch closure.
Cllr Crichton, said:
“The TSB Stornoway branch has provided employment for local professionals for years. I am concerned that the closure of this branch will see the migration of these jobs to mainland bases or to remote positions that do not guarantee employment for individuals based in the Western Isles. I am aware of ongoing discussions with Unions and would encourage TSB to provide further clarity on this point.”