Bank of Scotland to Close 13 Branches Next Year
The Bank of Scotland has announced plans to shut down 13 branches in the coming year, which includes two locations in the Highlands that currently have no alternative banking facilities.
This decision was made by the bank’s owner, Lloyd’s Banking Group, impacting areas like Nian, Dingwall, Gearlock, and Thein.
As banking practices evolve, many customers are shifting to online money management, which, I suppose, is part of the reasoning behind these closures.
Deputy Minister Kate Forbes has pointed out that the last remaining banks in Dingwall and Nairn are essential for the community, while MP Graham Leadbitter has urged the Bank of Scotland to reconsider its decision.
The closures will primarily take place from January to March next year, with two additional branches closing in October.
- January 2026: Larkhall, Belsil, Thein, Glasgow Anniesland, Erskin, Gearlock, Nairn, St Andrews, Castle Douglas
- March 2026: Dingwall, Largs
- October 2026: Whick, Grangemas
Forbes, representing the Skye, Lochaber, and Badenoch constituency, expressed worries about the repercussions for rural areas. She noted that the Dingwall and Nairn branches are the only banks left in those towns. She stated:
“This planned closure is a significant loss, particularly for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those without reliable internet access. I’ve urged the Bank of Scotland to rethink this, and I hope they will collaborate with the community to find sustainable solutions that meet local needs.”
Concerns Raised
Leadbitter, representing Moray West, Nairn, and Strathspey, shared his thoughts with BBC Scotland News:
“The Bank of Scotland claims to have 43,000 customers in this area but intends to leave just one bank in Elgin. It’s disheartening, and while I’m not overly optimistic about changing their decisions, there’s a need to fight to keep these services available.”
In response to the closures, the Bank of Scotland indicated that all employees at the affected branches would be provided opportunities at other locations. A spokesperson noted, “With so many customers managing their finances via the app, banking behaviors have shifted. Customers can also use branches of Scottish banks, Lloyd’s, or Halifax, as well as post offices and bank hubs for their daily banking needs.”
Additionally, Lloyd’s Banking Group is set to close 26 Lloyd’s and 10 Halifax branches as part of a larger reorganization.
