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BANK customers can carry out transactions in person in Forres thanks to a nationwide campaign.
Cash Access UK – set up to protect nationwide access to cash – has confirmed the new permanent Banking Hub is now open at 96 High Street.
Cash Access UK CEO Gareth Oakley is pleased the former Clydesdale Bank that opened in 1898 and closed in 2015 is serving the community once again.
He said: “Residents and businesses who have given us great feedback on the temporary hub can now enjoy guaranteed access to cash and face-to-face banking services.”
The temporary hub within Moray Firth Credit Union, 53 High Street has now closed. Credit union director Lorna Creswell is disappointed that it is no longer there but is happy with the new addition to High Street.
She said: “We worked well together but because it was temporary, we were discouraged from promoting our services within the premises – more promotion would’ve clarified what was offered and what needed a visit to Elgin.
“We’re pleased that a derelict High Street building is being utilised but its refurbishment could be seen as excessive when the shared facility was more than adequate.”
The new hub offers a counter service operated by the Post Office. Customers can carry out regular cash transactions from 9am-5pm, Monday-Friday.
It also offers a community banker service where customers can talk to their own bank. On Mondays a Bank of Scotland representative will be available; on Tuesdays someone from the Royal Bank of Scotland; Wednesdays welcome a Santander employee; Thursdays TSB; and Fridays Virgin Money.
The hub was recommended by the UK’s cash access and ATM network LINK following the announcement of the closure of the final local bank branch in the summer of 2022.
Staff have now been employed to work in the Bank Hub and the Post Office.
Postmaster Paul McBain said: “They are all trained to help.
“The temporary hub at the credit union allowed us to blend – Lorna and her team were welcoming and helpful.
“There now is a framework allowing cash withdrawals and deposits, cheque deposits for business and personal customers and change for business customers.”
Forres Community Council chairman Steve Ferris thinks the new hub is a timely addition to High Street.
He said: “The facility offers access to cash and financial advice in a safe and secure environment.
“This is one of the first banking hubs in Scotland so, if we can make it work here, other towns may benefit from similar set-ups.”
For more information email [email protected].
