THE decision to close the Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) branch in Alexandria has been described as a bitter blow to the community.

The closure comes as the bank revealed use of the Mitchell Way branch – which will shut in August – has reduced by 23 per cent in five years.

The announcement comes at a time when West Dunbartonshire Council is planning a major regeneration of the town centre.

Vale councillor David McBride said: “It is particularly disappointing this is happening when long awaited redevelopment plans are now beginning to happen.” For customers who regularly use the local service it means having to travel 3.6 miles away to Dumbarton for another RBS, and it leaves staff with an uncertain future.

However, the firm plans to keep an ATM in the town, and has also reached an agreement with the Post Office for customers to make money transactions, check balances and receive coinage within the Alexandria shop.

The closure affects one full-time member of staff at the branch, but RBS aims to “redeploy staff to nearby branches”.

Although the closure comes as a big blow to the regeneration of the high street, there are still three other national banks operating in the town.

As part of their plans, the business is writing to all customers as well as displaying posters in branch to let them know of the closure.

Between now and the closure date of August 15, RBS will engage with customers, local businesses and the wider community to make sure they are aware of the alternative ways of accessing their banking in the area, and to answer any questions.

Cllr McBride told the Reporter: “Considering RBS is in the majority ownership of the taxpayer I would urge them not to abandon their customers and the community and re-think their closure plans.

"The branch is busy and offers a vital high street service.

“I know the local traders and the community support the current investment plans and while this is clearly not a welcome development, hopefully it will not hamper the improvements we are looking forward to.”

RBS believe its customers are using alternative ways to bank such as online and mobile banking, meaning banking online has grown by 400 per cent since 2010.

And newly re-elected MSP Jackie Baillie has written to RBS for the plans to be halted until it completes a full consultation with customers.

She said: “Considering RBS is in the majority ownership of the tax payer I would urge them not to abandon their customers and the community and re think their closure plans. The branch is busy and offers a vital high street service.”

Ms Baillie added: “This closure announcement flies in the face of the TV ads which proudly boast about Royal Bank of Scotland’s commitment to local communities.

“I have asked RBS to press the pause button on their plans until the bank holds a full consultation with customers in the Vale of Leven.

“This decision is also short-sighted given the recently announced town centre regeneration plans. It is disappointing that RBS seems to have overlooked the future potential of Alexandria at the very same moment as other big name brands are looking to move to the area.”

RBS believes its customers are using alternative ways to bank such as online and mobile banking, meaning banking online has grown by 400 per cent since 2010.