THE Garnock Valley’s last bank will not be closing in the near future, TSB has confirmed.

But the banking giant said that their branches are constantly reviewed, a decision that has angered the local MSP.

Rumours circulated last week that the TSB would be following in the path of the rest of the banks in the Garnock Valley – but it will remain open.

Cunninghame North MSP, Kenneth Gibson, told the Herald: “As the TSB IT meltdown enters its third week, causing chaos for online banking customers, it is clear that there is still a real demand for the face-to-face service provided by the TSB branch network.

“Banking bosses cannot continue peddling the fallacy that customers will receive a better customer experience from online or mobile banking services, when online users cannot even view their mortgage accounts or their credit card statements.

“The impact of bank closures is disproportionately felt by older and more vulnerable customers, but it also hits local businesses and community groups.

“While I am relieved that the Kilbirnie branch is not currently earmarked for closure, I am disappointed that TSB have not issued a statement on the bank’s future or offered any reassurances. If the Kilbirnie branch of RBS closes, the TSB will be the last bank remaining in the Garnock Valley, which should make it more secure. However, customers and staff have the right to be concerned about its future. They deserve clarity.”

A spokesperson for TSB said: “We do not currently have any plans to close our Kilbirnie branch. However, we constantly review our network across the country to ensure we meet the changing needs of customers.”