Adam Harley criticises planned closure of Santander in Kirkintilloch

Adam Harley, Scottish Liberal Democrat candidate for Strathkelvin & Bearsden has today criticised the decision by Santander to shut a number of branches including their branch in Kirkintilloch, which is set to close on April 29th 2026.

Since 2015, banks and building societies have closed more than 6,400 branches, working out at around 53 closures every month, according to consume champion Which?

Liberal Democrats have been campaigning on the issue of access to cash, meeting with LINK, the organisation responsible for the UK’s ATM network, and raising the need for community banking hubs to replace lost high street branches. Banking hubs provide shared facilities where customers of all major banks can withdraw and deposit cash, pay bills, and access basic services.

Adam Harley said:

"This closure will be a huge blow to those who rely on in-person banking services.

“Access to cash and in-person banking remains vital for many people in our communities, particularly older residents, small businesses, and those who are less confident with digital banking.

“For local shopkeepers, cafés, and traders who still rely heavily on cash, losing yet another branch risks making it harder to trade.

“The banks need to work together to deliver a banking hub for Kirkintilloch to ensure that local people and businesses are not left behind.

“It is time banks matched their rhetoric about serving customers with real investment in hubs and services that people can actually use.

“As your MSP I will push for practical solutions like hubs so that people are not deprived of essential financial services. People deserve better and Scottish Liberal Democrats are committed to delivering a fair solution."

Susan Murray, MP for Mid Dunbartonshire said:

"It is sad to see the closure of another banking hub. Lots of community businesses rely on banking locally in Kirkintilloch.

"This is another example of face-to-face services being taken from our older population. This leaves older residents in the community less well supported and more isolated.

"My Liberal Democrat colleagues and I will continue to push the government to provide support for local communities."