Tarbert cash machine update

The cash machine in the Tourist Information car park in Tarbert (opposite Hotel Hebrides) is out of action for now, but locals are being reassured that the situation is temporary.

News that the machine had been ‘de-cashed’ earlier this month caused concern that Tarbert might be about to lose another financial service, following the recent closure of the Bank of Scotland branch and the loss of the community banker.

Responding to queries, Councillor Paul Finnegan has raised the issue with Link, the umbrella organisation for UK cash access. Mr Finnegan, who has been campaigning for better cash access in Harris for several years, was reassured that the current closure is due to the need for essential repairs and not plans to withdraw the machine from service.

“Work needs to be done to the blue bunker that houses the cash point,” explained Mr Finnegan. “We don’t have a date for when this will take place yet, but the machine will only be out of service until the work is done.”

While most businesses in Tarbert accept cashless payment now, the cash point still plays an important role in community fundraising - particularly for those who want money to spend at events at the nearby community centre.

Cash can still be withdrawn from the Post Office in Tarbert during opening hours, and as cashback (via Paypoint) at the till from AD Munro, Ardhasaig Filling Station and the Clachan (Leverburgh).