Motherwell's Member of the Scottish Parliament (MSP) has voiced profound concern following the announcement that the town's Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) branch will permanently close its doors on September 10. This development follows the earlier closure of the RBS branch in Wishaw in 2024, leaving many residents across Motherwell and Wishaw without a nearby bank branch.
Constituents Raise Concerns
The issue was brought to the attention of Clare Adamson MSP by local residents who are worried about the impact on customers who depend on face-to-face banking services. Many individuals, particularly older people, those with disabilities, and individuals with mobility challenges, will now face longer journeys to access in-person banking. Concerns have also been raised about the growing reliance on digital banking, which may not be suitable for everyone.
MSP Takes Action
In response to these concerns, Ms. Adamson has written to NatWest Group, the parent company of RBS, seeking assurances regarding the support that will be provided to affected customers. She has highlighted the specific worries expressed by her constituents. The MSP stated: "I am deeply concerned about the impact this closure will have on customers across Motherwell and Wishaw. For many people and local businesses, particularly older residents, disabled people, and those who are not confident using digital banking, access to a local branch remains essential. The loss of the Wishaw branch and now the planned closure of the Motherwell branch will leave many customers facing longer journeys to carry out everyday banking."
She added: "While banking services are ultimately a commercial matter for the bank, it is important that the voices of local customers are heard. I have written to NatWest Group to seek assurances that appropriate support and alternative services will be put in place for those affected. No one should be excluded from accessing essential banking services because they cannot travel easily or because digital banking is not a practical option for them." Ms. Adamson has pledged to continue raising constituents' concerns and to press the bank for clear information on the support and alternative arrangements that will be available after the closure.
Bank's Response
NatWest Group acknowledged that while 95% of its customers now choose to bank digitally for day-to-day needs, it recognizes that in-person support remains an important part of how customers manage their finances. Solange Chamberlain, chief executive of retail banking at NatWest Group, said: "This is an important moment for our customers and the communities we serve. We are investing to offer customers a seamless mix of ways to bank with us, including over the phone, digitally, or via our free-to-use ATM network - while continuing to support those who prefer face-to-face banking in branches and community banking hubs. We understand the impact these changes can have for our colleagues and customers."
The bank also stated that it will continue to support financial capability through “financial health checks,” with more than 150,000 sessions delivered so far this year, helping customers take action over their finances. The closure of the Motherwell branch marks another significant reduction in physical banking services in the area, prompting ongoing dialogue between local representatives and the bank to ensure vulnerable customers are not left without essential banking support.
