The Bank of Scotland branch in Rutherglen is set to close its doors this week, becoming the latest in a series of closures announced by the Edinburgh-based banking giant. The branch on Main Street will shut on Thursday, June 11, as part of a broader plan to close 12 branches between now and October 2026.
Reasons for Closure
Bank of Scotland stated that the decision was driven by changing customer habits. A spokesperson explained: "Before we close any branch, we look at how customers are doing their banking. Most customers prefer to use our mobile app, online banking or call us. Because of this, we'll be closing our Rutherglen branch." The bank highlighted that a Cash In & Out Machine is available at Asda in Toryglen, which is free to use and provides instant account credit for cash deposits.
Alternative Banking Options
Customers in Rutherglen can still access banking services through several alternatives. A Banking Hub is already operational at 158 Main Street, Cambuslang, G72 7EL, offering face-to-face services from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday. Run by the Post Office, the hub allows customers to pay in and withdraw cash, check balances, pay bills, and top up gas and electricity. Additionally, a community banker visits regularly for personal assistance. Customers can also use the mobile banking app, which the bank describes as "simple and safe to use," or visit any Bank of Scotland, Halifax, or Lloyds branch, as they are part of the same group.
Local Opposition
The closure has faced strong opposition from local politicians. Michael Shanks MP and Clare Haughey MSP launched petitions that garnered hundreds of signatures. Mr. Shanks noted that this is the second Bank of Scotland closure in his constituency in just over 12 months, following the loss of the Uddingston branch last year. He stated: "I am deeply disappointed with the decision to close the Rutherglen branch, especially so soon after the loss of nearby services. We're seeing bank branches close at an alarming rate across the country as local services are reduced and customers are forced to journey further afield. I know from speaking to residents that access to a branch which provides cash is essential, particularly for older people and those who face digital or mobility challenges. In an era of advanced banking scams and economic hardship, we need to be looking at ways to improve financial support rather than withdrawing it."
Ms. Haughey expressed outrage, saying the loss of in-person banking will adversely impact local businesses, charities, and organisations. She commented: "I strongly refute any notion from banks that all banking has moved online and that people do not wish to use local branches. We have seen with the Bank Hub in Cambuslang that this is simply not the case. It is imperative that those who lack the means to bank over the internet can bank safely and securely, as well as seek financial advice and support, and that local businesses and organisations can access face-to-face banking."
Bank's Response
A Bank of Scotland spokesperson reiterated the bank's commitment to providing flexible banking options: "Customers want the freedom to bank in the way that works for them and we offer more choice and ways to manage money than ever before. In addition to our app, customers can use the local Post Office or walk into any Bank of Scotland, Halifax or Lloyds branch to manage their money, and can also deposit cash at PayPoint locations. We're giving our customers the flexibility to bank wherever and whenever they need us."
