Banff and Buchan MP to hold discussions with Virgin Money bosses over closures
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David Duguid MP is to hold discussions with Virgin Money bosses ahead of a public meeting following the closure of its branch in Turriff.
The Banff and Buchan MP raised concerns when it was announced last week that the bank on Main Street will shut in November, forcing customers to use branches 20 miles away in Inverurie or Keith.
Mr Duguid will meet with Virgin’s head of stores, Allison Hair, public affairs manager Richie Lovell and area manager Gary Venerus on Tuesday to express his fears over the lack of banking facilities in the area.
He will also ask how many staff are at threat of redundancy and if they will be deployed elsewhere in the north-east.
It comes ahead of a public meeting which is being organised by Turriff Business Association and Community Council at the Royal British Legion Clubrooms on Thursday, August 10.
Banff and Buchan MP David Duguid said: “During my meeting, I will express my disappointment at the short notice announcement and ask if there is any hope of Virgin Money reversing this catastrophic decision.
“I want to make sure banks such as Virgin do not inadvertently and prematurely create a cashless society before that society is ready.
“Virgin Money claims footfall has reduced but the people who do still use the bank in person tend to be the elderly and most vulnerable in this community.
“This bank, formerly Clydesdale Bank, is also well used by local businesses, including many farmers in the area.
“If this closure does go ahead, it will leave just one bank to serve Turriff and I’m not convinced Virgin has taken into account the large surrounding rural area which also depends on services based in the town.
“I’m particularly concerned customers appear to have learned of this closure in the press last Friday, without having been consulted adequately.
“Virgin Money needs to appreciate that residents facing a 40-mile round trip to their nearest branch will find it increasingly difficult to manage their money.
“We also cannot forget about the hardworking staff who are now at threat of losing their jobs which is why I will be asking what is being done to support them and if they will be redeployed.”
