Millport Bank of Scotland branch to close in February 2024

The Lloyds Banking Group has announced the closure of 36 branches across the country, among them 28 Bank of Scotland branches - including Millport. 

According to a 'closure review' report prepared by the company, the ATM at the Millport branch will also close

The Bank of Scotland branch in Brodick is also to close.

Lloyds Banking Group, which owns the Bank of Scotland, said customers are moving towards digital banking. 

However, North Coast councillor and Cumbrae resident Todd Ferguson has lambasted the move.

He said: "It is ridiculous. Given the demographics of Cumbrae where there are more elderly people, it seems absolutely crazy.

"It will also have an impact on some businesses on the island who operate as cash only - how are they meant to get by. And there are also safety and security issues too with movement around of cash.

"To leave towns like Millport and Brodick in Arran without banks seems ludicrious too, given that they are tourism destinations.

"The other issue you have is the well publicised problems there have been with the ferries - and catching a boat over to Largs. 

"I completely against this and to leave island communities without direct physical access to a bank seems completely ridiculous."

The island bank is based in Stuart Street, near the seafront, and is open two days a week, on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10am till 2pm.

It also operates an ATM facility, although the Bank of Scotland website incorrectly states that Millport is in East Ayrshire, when it is North.

The Millport bank's website states that its facilities include counter service, travel money, wi-fi with digital assistance available, while accessible services include a talking cashpoint, hearing induction loop, support for Sunflower Lanyard wearers, and wheelchair access.

Cllr Ferguson added: "It seems a terrible decision, and I hope to reach out and find out more about the situation, and strongly oppose this in Cumbrae, as well as on the Isle of Arran."