Midlothian TSB pop-up banks welcomed

TSB’s decision to launch 19 pop-up branches in Scotland, including two in Midlothian, before the end of the Summer, has been welcomed locally.

Owen Thompson MP.

Speaking about the pop-up banks, which will soon appear in Penicuik and Dalkeith, a TSB spokesperson said: “Following branch closures announced last year, TSB has engaged with communities, customers, staff and politicians to ensure its face-to-face banking services are suited to the evolving habits of customers and the needs of communities.”

Midlothian MP Owen Thompson who has long spoken out about local bank closures, welcomed this news.

He said: “I’m quick to criticise banks for abandoning their customer base and closing branches so I am equally keen to support TSB for at least offering an option to those who use face to face banking in Dalkeith and Penicuik.

“Banks need to serve everyone, including older and more vulnerable people who suffer most from the closure of their local branch, but all too often they leave town without a backward glance.

"I recognise the commercial pressures they face, so while it’s far from perfect, I give credit to TSB for seeking a solution to keep local counter services alive.

"The pop-up branches I hope will be more than a cursory nod to inclusivity and will not disappear at the drop of a hat, although the details remain to be seen.

"Nevertheless if it offers some security that banking services will remain in the communities, then I welcome this move.”

Age Scotland’s Chief Executive Brian Sloan said: “To give credit where it’s due, while the closure of almost half of Scottish TSB branches is a considerable blow to customers and communities, we appreciate that TSB recognise the value of their in-person services and are taking these necessary steps to support those who rely on them.

“We know that a huge number of older people prefer to speak to real people when it comes to managing their money and it’s important to ensure not only those online have easy access to their finances.

“By offering these initiatives first in locations where it takes customers longer than 20 minutes to travel to their nearest branch, TSB will be doing a better job of protecting the needs and interests of older customers in Midlothian and making it easier for them to manage their money and access cash going forward.

“We look forward to seeing how this pop-up service option works in practice over the coming months.”