Petition for Banking Hub in Cupar

Yesterday evening I formally presented a petition in the House of Commons calling for a new banking hub to be established in Cupar. The petition, signed by just under 600 local residents, reflects growing concern about the rapid decline of in‑person banking services across the area.

Cupar has been left with only one building society and no remaining bank branches, despite serving a large rural population and acting as a key service centre for surrounding communities.

Across North East Fife, the picture is equally stark. Since 2015, the constituency has lost 78.3% of its bank network, leaving just five bank branches operating today.

The local community have been clear: Cupar urgently needs a banking hub. With almost 600 signatures, this petition shows the strength of feeling across the community about the loss of banking services. Cupar is the largest permanent residence town in North East Fife – the residents and businesses here rely on access to cash, in‑person advice and essential financial services.

Scotland has seen the steepest declines in bank branches anywhere in the country. That is simply not sustainable – particularly in areas with significant rural communities, older residents and small businesses who depend on reliable banking access.

I will continue pressing LINK and the major banks to recognise the clear need for a hub in Cupar and to act quickly. Local people deserve accessible, secure and reliable banking services - not to be left behind as branches disappear.