Moray MSP Richard Lochhead has met with the Banking Hub Company to get an update on plans to open a collective bank branch in Forres following the closure of the Bank of Scotland last year, which left the town without a single bank.
Mr Lochhead met with Amanda Bell, the Delivery Director, and Anna Brady, Programme Manager, to discuss plans for Forres Banking Hub.
It was announced in September that Forres would get a shared banking hub and the company has confirmed to Moray’s MSP that it hopes to have the doors open by autumn this year.
Commenting Richard Lochhead MSP said: “I was delighted to meet with representatives from the banking hub company and to get an update on plans to open a shared banking hub in Forres, which will hopefully be up and running later this year.
“Plans for a hub, which will be open 9am to 5pm from Monday to Friday, will be well supported in the community. It will be a real boost for folk to know they will be able to speak to a representative from their own bank in person without having to travel to Elgin or Nairn.
“I’m told that work is ongoing to secure suitable premises on the High Street, with a preferred option having been identified. Hopefully, these discussions will conclude positively and things can move quickly to get the doors open as soon as possible.
“The company has provided me with a helpful Q&A outlining how the hub will operate and the services it will provide, which I will share with the community. If anyone would like a copy, they should feel free to contact my office.”
Banking Hub Company’s Delivery Director, Amanda Bell added: “Having access to cash services is vitally important for millions of people around the UK, particularly in challenging financial times. So, I’m thrilled to confirm that we are well underway with the Forres Banking Hub.
“Seeing the success of our existing Banking Hubs and the impact they have already had within their local communities is an important reminder of how vital face-to-face banking services are for people – from counter services to the knowledge and support of the community bankers.
“We’re in the process of negotiating a suitable venue for the Forres Hub and we’ll be updating the community throughout 2023 on our progress.”
I think the provision of a banking hub is to be commended but we must not forget the excellent service provided by our local Post Offices in the interim.
Many people are looking forward to the Banking Hub on Forres High Street, for personal and business services.
I do hope our local Post Office will continue to be in partnership with some of the banks. I, as a business owner, since the unwelcome closure of the Bank of Scotland, have found the service at the Post Office to be most helpful and always a warm welcome.