Getty ImagesThe Bank of Scotland is set to close a further 13 branches next year, including two in Highland towns that have no other outlets.
Owner Lloyds Banking Group announced the closures, which include four in the Highlands – Nairn, Dingwall, Gairloch and Tain.
It said the move reflected the way banking had changed, with many people now managing their money online.
Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes, whose constituency includes the last remaining banks in Dingwall and Nairn, and MP Graham Leadbitter have urged the Bank of Scotland to reverse the decision.
Eleven of the branches will close between January and March next year, with the remaining two to close in October.
- January 2026 Larkhall, Belshill, Tain, Glasgow Anniesland, Erskine, Gairloch, Nairn, St Andrews, Castle Douglas
- March 2026 Dingwall, Largs
- October 2026 Hawick, Grangemouth
Kate Forbes, the MSP for Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch, raised concerns about the impact the closures will have on rural communities.
The Dingwall and Nairn branches are the last remaining banks in the towns.
Forbes said: “Dingwall is a regional hub that rural communities depend on for essential services
“This planned closure is a real loss, especially for older residents, people with disabilities, and households without reliable internet access.
“I have asked the Bank of Scotland to reconsider this decision. I hope they will work with the community to secure a sustainable solution that provides for the real needs of local people.”
Deeply concerning
Leadbitter, who represents Moray West, Nairn and Strathspey, told BBC Scotland News: “The continued loss of banking services in communities right across the Highlands, and in my own constituency of Nairn, is deeply concerning.
“The Bank of Scotland are saying they have 43,000 customers in this constituency and they are going to leave one bank – which is the bank in Elgin.
“I cant say I have a great deal of hope that they’ll change their course but you have to fight to keep these services.”
The Bank of Scotland said all staff members at the closing branches would be offered a role in another part of the business.
A spokesperson said: “The way people are banking has changed as many customers are managing their money through our app.
“Alongside our app, customers can use any Bank of Scotland, Lloyds or Halifax branch, the Post Office or banking hubs for their everyday banking.”
LLoyds Banking Group also plans to close 26 Lloyds and 10 Halifax branches.