PLANS have been revealed to shut the only bank in Kilcreggan.

The Bank of Scotland has announced the closure of the branch on Shore Road among 31 other branches across the country.

According to a 'closure review' report prepared by the company, the Kilcreggan branch will close on August 15 next year.

It is expected that a community banker will visit the area to offer support and guidance to villagers.

The nearest alternative Bank of Scotland branch is located 15 miles away in Helensburgh, though villagers will be encouraged to use the Post Office on the same street to carry out their everyday banking needs.

The review document also states that around three-quarters of people who use the branch are aged 55 and over, and nearly one in three are aged 75 or above.

However, the review also says that only 15 customers used the branch regularly in 12 months to July this year.

Constituency MSP Jackie Baillie has urged the organisation to consult with the community after she was frustrated to find out that the Lloyds Banking Group, which owns Bank of Scotland, intends to push ahead with their closure plans without seeking feedback from the public first.

The bank's closure review states that it intends to consult Ms Baillie, Argyll and Bute MP Brendan O'Hara, the Post Office's area manager, the National Federation of Sub Postmasters, West Dunbartonshire Citizens Advice Bureau, and the Scottish Chambers of Commerce. 

The branch is currently open two days a week, on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10am till 2pm.

Ms Baillie said: “I recognise that people’s banking habits are changing but I am extremely disappointed by the planned closure of the Bank of Scotland branch in Kilcreggan.

“This branch is a lifeline for people in outlying communities without easy access to public transport and is crucial to employment within the small village of Kilcreggan.

“It also has an important role for businesses and elderly people who may not be comfortable or confident in using online banking.

“I am disappointed that this decision has been made without meaningful engagement with local people and I urge the Bank of Scotland to ensure they carry out a full consultation exercise before confirming any future plans.”

Helensburgh has lost two bank branches - the TSB and Santander - within the past 10 years.

A Lloyds Banking Group spokesperson said: “The way customers choose to bank with us has changed rapidly in recent years, and we now offer a wide range of options for their everyday banking needs.

“This includes our mobile app, online and over the phone.

“Customers can also bank with us through the Post Office, in a Banking Hub, or by speaking to a Community Banker.”