DISCUSSIONS over the installation of a free-to-use ATM in Arrochar have failed to reach a positive outcome for the village – to the disappointment of the area’s MSP.

Jackie Baillie met Royal Bank of Scotland representatives last month to discuss the need for a machine in the area following the closure of the village’s branch in 2013.

But despite representations from Ms Baillie and the local community, RBS has told her that it no longer operates stand-alone ATMs as part of its business.

Ms Baillie said: “I am, of course, disappointed that RBS will not install a free ATM in Arrochar.

“The village has been left with no access to free cash following the closure of the bank’s branch.

“RBS have closed a staggering number of branches across Scotland in recent years.

“Whilst RBS do provide a mobile bank branch to the village once a week for 40 minutes, this simply does not replace a branch, or provide visitors and residents with access to free cash when they need it.

“The lack of access to free cash affects the local economy in Arrochar, with visitors unable to spend money in the village when they are there. I hope LINK can provide a suitable solution in the near future.”

The Advertiser previously reported that attempts by the owners of Braeside Stores in the village to persuade banking institutions to install a free-to-use ATM in the village had hit a brick wall.