OFFICIALS from TSB bank have stated that they are now willing to change their minds regarding the Cowdenbeath branch’s closure.

Annabelle Ewing, MSP, for Cowdenbeath, today met with officials from the TSB to discuss their planned closure of the TSB branch in Cowdenbeath.

Speaking after the meeting, Ewing said: “Following my meeting with TSB officials to discuss their planned closure of the Cowdenbeath branch of the TSB, I have to say that I am very disappointed that they do not seem to be at all inclined to change their minds.

“Frustratingly, it was not possible to get the information I was looking for in terms of how many customers would be affected as they would not disclose the number of current customers but I firmly advised them that, for many, trekking into the TSB in Dunfermline would not be the preferred option.

“So, whilst I give a lukewarm welcome to the small concession that a local telephone service will be set up in the Dunfermline Branch for Cowdenbeath customers, that comes nowhere near the ease of popping into the local Branch.

“Regarding business customers, they spoke of a G4S pilot collection scheme of up to £14 per collection which I really do not think is likely to present a viable alternative.

“For staff, I understand that discussions are ongoing with possible redeployment and voluntary redundancies currently being explored.

“The bottom line, for me, out of this discussion was that this branch closure is yet another example of the customer not coming first and a further blow for beleaguered high streets.”