The Sauchiehall Street branch, which will shut its doors on November 19 next year, is part of a broader trend that has seen 578 bank branches close across the UK just in 2023, with Barclays leading the count at 185 closures. NatWest Group ranks second with 116 branches ceasing operations, The Scotsman reports.

This move reflects a significant downturn for Glasgow’s renowned shopping district, which has already seen the departure of retail giants such as Marks & Spencer and BHS, exacerbated by the shift towards online shopping and the popularity of retail parks.

The reduction in physical banking is partly attributed to the steep decline in over-the-counter transactions, which have plummeted by 60% over the past four years, as customers increasingly turn to mobile banking solutions.

A Natwest spokesperson said: “We understand and recognise that digital solutions aren’t right for everyone or every situation, and that when we close branches we have to make sure that no-one is left behind. We take our responsibility seriously.”