RBS under fire over scaled-back mobile branch schedule

Banking giant RBS has been accused of slapping customers in the face after a scaled-back schedule for mobile branches was revealed.

As branches in Pitlochry and Aberfeldy prepare for closure, furious Conservative politicians have discovered that from this month visits to the area by mobile branches are to be reduced.

A new timetable provided to Mid Scotland and Fife MSPs Murdo Fraser and Liz Smith revealed the vans, which offer deposits, cash withdrawals and bill payments, will visit Pitlochry for one hour twice a week, Aberfeldy just once per week for an hour and 45 minutes, and a one-hour weekly visit to Comrie.

Mr Fraser said: “This is another slap in the face for customers across Highland Perthshire.

“Customers have been loyal to RBS and deserve something more than what has been offered so far. Although officials have said that the schedule will remain under review I don’t think any customer is realistically expecting the bank to offer more slots considering their approach to date, which has been very disappointing.”

Ms Smith added: “For customers in Comrie, this level of service is a complete betrayal and 45 minutes once a week is barely enough time to conduct the most basic of banking services.

“When closures were announced customers were assured that mobile banking would be able to meet demand and this schedule clearly does not meet the challenge.”

In the letter, RBS said the schedule will remain under “constant monthly review”.

Another statement cited a move towards online banking for the move away from traditional branches, saying: “As customers change the way they bank with us, we must change the way that we serve them.

“Closing a branch is a decision we take very seriously and we’ll always work hard to guide you through the changes and find the best way to serve you from now on.”