A DEMAND has been delivered for a 'root and branch' review of post office and bank services in Inverclyde following a string of closures.

Councillors have expressed concern that the number of such facilities in the district is dwindling fast.

Currently, there is only Royal Bank of Scotland branch left in Inverclyde.

In Port Glasgow, the RBS, Clydesdale and TSB have all pulled out, closing down their outlets.

Meanwhile the area has suffered a string of closures in the postal network, from Wemyss Bay to the Port - and there are fears that a temporary closure of the branch in Greenock's east end will become permanent.

Now elected members from across the political divide have put their differences aside to try and stem the tide.

They say the closures are having a 'very real impact' on vulnerable members of the Inverclyde community who need access to banking and postal services.

The council has now pledged to review the bank and post office closures.

It will also write to the relevant government minister about the impact the situation is having on the local economy and on the wellbeing of the people of Inverclyde.

The council is calling for legislation to be introduced to ensure that banks continue to provide services through the post office network when branches close, and wants all ATM charges to be removed.

A motion put forward by councillors Jim MacLeod and Chris Curley was agreed at the meeting.

Councillor Jim MacLeod said: "All councillors have been approached by constituents with difficulties accessing cash following the closure of banks.

"It has become difficult for many people.

"Having fewer accessible cash machines has a real impact on residents with mobility issues."

Cllr Curley added: "Access to banking and postal services is getting more difficult for residents.

"The rise of online services undoubtedly helps many but it doesn’t help everyone.

"Limited access to banking and postal services limits the ability of people to access shops and other local services."