Maree Todd, MSP for Highlands and Islands, has launched a petition in a bid to ease the banking crisis in Ross-shire.
The Bank of Scotland branch in Tain closed on Monday. The Gairloch Branch is scheduled for closure on 29th January, followed by the Dingwall branch on 25th March.
The petition calls for changes to Financial Conduct Authority rules and LINK’s criteria to enhance cash access and expand banking hubs in rural areas.
It urges these criteria to take into account the specific needs of rural communities, such as aging populations, limited internet connectivity, and geographic difficulties.
Ms Todd is encouraging as many people as possible to sign the petition and help safeguard banking services.
It can be found at: https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/751773
Scottish EDGE has launched a second round of its successful Regional EDGE competition, designed to support high-growth startups outside the central belt.
The contest is backed by Scottish Government funding and aims to address an historic engagement gap in areas like the Highlands, by offering local businesses a chance to secure up to fifty thousand pounds of funding.
In partnership with Highlands and Islands Enterprise, a dedicated local final will be held where five winners from the area will be selected.
Alongside the financial awards, successful applicants join a network with access to expert mentorship and industry contacts.
Highland Council Leader Raymond Bremner, Chair of the Scottish Cities Alliance, will be attending Scottish Cities Week from Monday.
The event, which is held each year in London, provides an opportunity to create and develop long-term strategic partnerships with a variety of international investors.
The occasion ties in with the council’s Invest Highland brand which is aimed at promoting the Highlands’ wealth of investment opportunities.
The Scottish Cities Alliance, is a collaboration between Scotland’s eight cities and the Scottish Government, working together to promote the country’s economic potential.
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