Ross welcomes Link representatives to new Cullen ATM
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THE installation of a new cash machine in Cullen has been welcomed by Moray MP Douglas Ross.
Following on from a concerted community campaign to restore an ATM to the village – the previous one vanished when the local Bank of Scotland closed its doors in 2016 – a link cash machine was installed in the town's Co-op store in May.
Since then, it has been well used by people in Cullen and surrounding communities.
Monday, August 2 saw Mr Ross welcome two representatives from UK Link to show them the newly ATM.
Mr Ross said: “The Bank of Scotland which was located in Cullen, closed its doors in 2016 as part of the nationwide bank closure programme.
"This move had a really bad effect on the community as it resulted in tourists and locals alike finding it difficult to access cash within the village. With some businesses only able to accept cash, it proved difficult for the many tourists who visit Cullen each year and it clearly had a negative impact on the local economy.
“In 2019 I secured a debate in Westminster on this issue and I highlighted the circumstances here in Cullen, noting that in Scotland we have what are referred to as ‘cash deserts’ which are areas where there is no access to cash through a bank or ATM for many miles.
“Working closely with those in the community and local councillors an approach was made to UK ATM network, Link, who after discussions agreed to instal a new ATM cash machine in the village.
“A few months ago the ATM was installed in the Co-op on Grant Street and it was good to welcome back Link Director Bill Raynal and Ian Vernon, Head of Commercial Initiatives to the village to see the installed machine, which is already being well used by local residents and visitors to Cullen.”
Cullen has a population of around 1500 but this increases significantly during the summer as this coastline is a tourist destination with many overseas visitors. With no ATM, many experienced problems getting cash to pay for goods and services in businesses in the town
Mr Vernon added: “Cullen is a village which is hugely popular with tourists who want to spend money in the area.
"That was problematic when there wasn’t a free machine so we are glad that we have been able to help the community with the support of Douglas Ross MP. The response to the ATM from local residents has been very positive.
“Free access to cash remains vital for communities across the UK and we’re ready to support more communities access cash easily."
