Craig Hoy MSP has called for an urgent review to ensure that residents and businesses in Langholm continue to have access to cash as the town faces the loss of a key cash machine.
Mr Hoy, who is also the Scottish Conservative candidate for Dumfriesshire, has been contacted by local residents who are concerned about the planned removal of the ATM at the High Street Londis store.
Once removed, Langholm will be left with only one ATM, located outwith the town centre.
Mr Hoy said: “Access to cash remains vital for many, especially in rural towns like Langholm. Elderly residents, small businesses and vulnerable people rely on access to cash locally. The loss of this central ATM would be a serious blow to out of hours cash access in the town.”
Although Langholm’s newly opened Post Office is offering cashback during opening hours, it does not provide access to cash at certain times during weekends and evenings – a key concern among local residents and for Mr Hoy.
Craig said: “I want to ensure that Langholm isn't left behind and continues to have good access to cash. I’ve been in contact with LINK to ask what options are available for the town.
"They’ve advised that while competition law may limit their ability to commission a new ATM where one already exists within 1km, local residents with my support can still formally request a review through LINK’s website.
“If demand for cash is still significant, and I believe it is, then local services should reflect that. I’ll continue working with LINK and the community to ensure that Langholm has reliable round the clock access to cash now and into the future.”
Mr Hoy is encouraging concerned residents to use LINK’s 'Request Access to Cash' tool and is urging ATM operators to consider Langholm for a new, centrally located, cash machine.
