Banks reducing their opening hours in North Ayrshire is “a worrying development” and “hurts communities” say local elected members.

Patricia Gibson MP and Councillor Joe Cullinane responded to the news that both the Saltcoats and Kilbirnie TSB branches are to cut their opening hours to a three-day week.

The move is yet another blow to banking in North Ayrshire, which has seen the closure of several banks over the years.

Dalry’s TSB and Kilbirnie’s Royal Bank of Scotland both closed, while Beith has lost four banks – the TSB, Bank of Scotland, Clydesdale Bank and the Bank of Scotland. Saltcoats lost three banks – the Royal Bank of Scotland Clydesdale and Barclays, and Kilwinning saw the closure of its Royal Bank of Scotland.

Patricia Gibson, MP for Ayrshire and Arran, said: “This reduction of TSB opening hours in Saltcoats, Kilbirnie and 69 other branches across Scotland is a worrying development.

“Both Kilbirnie and Saltcoats recently suffered RBS branch closures and now TSB is also retreating from our towns with reduced opening hours.

“Whilst it is a positive sign that TSB will not simply close branches as others have done, reduced banking hours do ring alarm bells.

“It is vital that these banks remain in our towns for the sake of our communities and financial inclusion.

“I will raise this with TSB Chief Executive Debbie Crosbie and seek guarantees on the long-term future of TSB branches in North Ayrshire.”

Joe Cullinane, leader of North Ayrshire Council, added: “This is the continued retraction of banking services from our high streets by the big banks.

“Poor access to bank branches hurts towns and communities, particularly the elderly, and it is clear that the UK banking system needs serious reform.

“Consideration must be given to different ownership models, taking inspiration from other countries banking systems such as Germany who have a network of community savings banks.”