RENFREW'S politicians have said they are "disappointed and concerned" by the imminent closure of the town's Santander branch. 

The news broke this morning that the giant is to close 140 branches across the country, putting over 1,200 jobs at risk. 

The branch is just the latest to close in the town, with Clydesdale and the Royal Bank of Scotland also closing down in Renfrew in recent years. 

Gavin Newlands, MP for Paisley and Renfrewshire North, said he was "deeply concerned" about the closure. 

READ MORE: The full list of banks closed in Renfrewshire in last three years

He also outlined that he believes replacing banks with Post Offices is not a viable solution to the ongoing problem. 

Mr Newlands told The Gazette: "I was deeply concerned to learn of the imminent closure of the Renfrew Santander branch as 1 of 140 closures across the UK. This is certainly a disappointing situation for Santander customers in Renfrew and the surrounding area, but will be a body blow to the branch employees themselves.

"Despite moves towards online and telephone banking, people, particularly the elderly, still need access to physical bank branches. In writing to Santander to express my dismay at the closure I have asked if they have taken this fully into account before deciding to close the branch."

He was supported by his SNP colleague, Derek MacKay, who told The Gazette: "I am very disappointed that Santander has decided to close the Renfrew branch. This is a branch not only used by people from Renfrew, but is also also used by people from Erskine, Inchinnan, Bishopton and other villages.

The Gazette: Derek MacKay said he would write to bank bosses Derek MacKay said he would write to bank bosses

"I am seeking an urgent update from bank bosses, when I will be pressing the management to consider allowing the much used ATMs to remain. This is something other banks have committed to doing when closing banks in the past.

READ MORE: Santander to close 140 branches, putting over 1,200 jobs at risk

"It is also essential that the bank ensures there is sufficient capacity elsewhere, to cater for all the needs of the customers and local businesses that will be let down by this decision."