BANK branches in north-west Glasgow will still close despite pleas from the area’s MP.

Carol Monaghan MP said she was “disappointed” that TSB Bank was continuing with their plans to shutter the branches in Drumchapel and Anniesland.

They are two of 73 across Scotland earmarked to shut with an expected 200 redundancies.

Ms Monaghan said she was particularly worried for TSB customers in Drumchapel as the closure means that their closest bank will be in Clydebank. And their high rate of digital exclusion means that many constituents will not have access to online services.

The MP met with TSB representatives to appeal for continued bank access for her constituents but the banking firm said they were committed to the closures.

Ms Monaghan said: “After meeting with representatives from TSB, I am very disappointed that the three Glasgow North West branches are still earmarked for closure.

“Despite hearing the clear and indisputable benefits of keeping the branches open for Glasgow North West customers, TSB have made the regrettable decision to continue with their plans.

“These closures constitute the removal of a vital service. Quick and easy access to financial support and advice within the community is always essential. However, in these times of increased upheaval due to the Covid-19 pandemic, it is even more crucial that we can all access our money easily and locally.

“As a result of these closures, many of my constituents will have to travel outside of their local communities to visit their bank. Equally, many customers will be directed towards online banking, despite the fact that access to broadband and technological devices is not universal.

“I am firmly against the decision to close these branches.”

Drumchapel’s TSB is based in Hecla Avenue and Anniesland’s in Great Western Road. The MP’s constituency also covers the planned closure of the Partick branch.

The bank’s closure program insists that even before coronavirus, customers were choosing other ways to bank with them through the use of cash machines and post offices. An additional 67 per cent of customers were also noted using mobile, online and telephone banking.

A TSB spokesperson insisted the bank is committed to investing in existing and new services. But that meant some branches may need to be closed.

They said: “TSB is committed to a national branch network and is taking forward plans announced last year to right size it. We are working closely with stakeholders to ensure we support our customers through these changes, particularly in the current environment.”