Hub progress
The drift towards online banking accelerated during and after the Covid pandemic with many more transactions being made by card or mobile phone.
Sadly that trend has led to a series of branch closures across Dumfries and Galloway in recent years, particularly frustrating for customers in rural areas seeking face-to-face banking.
At the same time cash machine operators have scaled back their networks, reflecting lower usage.
The Post Office and short visits by mobile banks can provide some services, but I know from constituents just how inconvenient the current situation is for businesses and individuals.
I’m encouraged by a positive development in Kirkcudbright, which lost its last bank branch a while ago. Industry body Cash Access UK have confirmed to me they are on track to open a new banking hub at the former Bank of Scotland premises in St Mary’s Street later this year.
With a lease signed, a counter service accessing a number of High Street banks will be available from the hub.
Whilst digital banking has expanded greatly with the onward march of technology, cash still remains an important part of the UK economy and in the lives of many constituents.
Sport spectacle
The visit of the UCI Cycling World Championships to the Dumfries area was by all accounts a success highlighting our fantastic scenery and our region’s historic link to the creation of that mode of transport.
Mid Nithsdale blacksmith Kirkpatrick Macmillan is widely credited with developing the first bicycle in the 19th century, an achievement indeed when you consider the increasing number of cyclists worldwide today.
Cycling technology is evolving swiftly and I was particularly pleased that para-cycling events were the main discipline of time trials and races held locally, part of an events programme across Scotland.
I know that the road closures caused some inconvenience but they were hopefully kept to a minimum and I’m glad the condition of the road surfaces used was good.
As one constituent pointed out to me, with potholes an even greater hazard for cyclists it is vital that increased investment is made in road maintenance by the Scottish Government through adequately funding local authorities.
Shopping locally
The future of the Wilco chain, which has been placed in administration, and locally the Castle Douglas branch, are an understandable concern for both the staff and customers.
It follows the recent closure of the town's M&Co branch and unfortunately reflects a trend in many communities across the country.
I’m supportive of initiatives to broaden the appeal of town centres but I believe, as consumers, we should always consider buying items we need from local retailers, where possible, and take advantage of the personal service and expertise often provided.
When it comes to the traditional shop, it can frequently be a case of use it or lose it.