On Monday 2nd August Moray MP Douglas Ross welcomed two representatives from UK Link, to the village of Cullen to show them the newly installed Link cash machine within the Co-op store, Grant Street, Cullen.
Douglas said:
“The Bank of Scotland which was located in Cullen, closed its doors in 2016 as part of the nationwide bank closure programme. This move had a really bad effect on the community as it resulted in tourists and locals alike finding it difficult to access cash within the village. With some businesses only able to accept cash, it proved difficult for the many tourists who visit Cullen each year and it clearly had a negative impact on the local economy.
“In 2019 I secured a debate in Westminster on this issue and I highlighted the circumstances here in Cullen, noting that in Scotland we have what are referred to as ‘cash deserts’ which are areas where there is no access to cash through a bank or ATM for many miles.
“Working closely with those in the community and local Councillors an approach was made to UK ATM network, Link, who after discussions agreed to install a new ATM cash machine in the village.
“A few months ago the ATM was installed in the Co-op on Grant Street and it was good to welcome back Link Director Bill Raynal and Ian Vernon, Head of Commercial Initiatives to the village to see the installed machine, which is already being well used by local residents and visitors to Cullen.”
Ian Vernon added:
“Cullen is a village which is hugely popular with tourists who want to spend money in the area. That was problematic when there wasn’t a free machine so we are glad that we have been able to help the community with the support of Douglas Ross MP. The response to the ATM from local residents has been very positive.
“Free access to cash remains vital for communities across the UK and we’re ready to support more communities access cash easily”.
