Banks to fork out to retain rural ATMs
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ATM network operator Link says it has struck a deal with banks to levy a “super premium” from them in order to keep machines in rural locations, including those in Scotland recently left without a brick and mortar branch.
Under the scheme, cash machine operators will receive enhanced premiums of up to £2.75 each time someone withdraws cash from an eligible machine.
In Scotland, a total of 400 ATMs are eligible for the premium, which will be introduced in April.
Angus MacNeil, MP for the Western Isles, helped campaign to save the Castlebay branch of RBS on Barra from closure.
He said: “This is only right. We have seen in the UK for far too long it has been slanted to the south-east of England to the detriment of the Highlands and islands. Occasionally we get a small bonus like this, it is only levelling for the amount of subsidies I see daily in London, from government buildings to the Tube.
“Things people take for granted everywhere else should be available in rural parts as well. If small community groups can own cash machines, even better for them.”
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