Assurance given over Castletown RBS branch
AN assurance about the future of the Castletown branch of the Royal Bank of Scotland has been given to local community councillors.
They had expressed concern the bank, which is in Main Street, was closing early because of staff shortages in Thurso and decided to write to the branch manager.
The bank opens on Mondays and Fridays between 10am and 12.30pm but it was claimed at times it was closing at noon or earlier – a move which, it was claimed, was inconveniencing customers.
Community councillors suggested if the hours are to be varied in future, advance warning should be given so alternative arrangements could be made.
They also stated certain transactions were being transferred to Thurso and were concerned such moves could put the future of the Castletown bank at risk.
However, Peter Gunn, the Thurso branch manager, said RBS has given a pledge not to close a bank if it is the only one providing a service to the community. "Castletown falls into that category," said Mr Gunn. He pointed out there are occasions when the opening hours were reduced at Castletown due to staffing difficulties or illness but said that happened only rarely.
Mr Gunn was unaware of certain transactions being transferred to the Thurso branch and hoped his response would help clarify the position and reassure community councillors.
Members were pleased with the reply but agreed "to keep an eye on the situation".