POTTSVILLE is about to get its first bank, with the Bananacoast Credit Union (BCU) “on track” to open a branch in the main street of the Tweed Coast village on Monday.

The move has delighted shopkeepers who say they are particularly pleased at plans for a night safe at the branch.

BCU chief executive Lyndon Kingston yesterday confirmed the organisation’s 24th branch was scheduled to open in Coronation Avenue on Monday, pending delivery of critical equipment either yesterday or today.

He said plans for the branch had been under way since last October and staff had already begun visiting local businesses “to say G’day and get to know what the town really wants from its first financial institution”.

“Sharon, Steve, Eloise and the team from BCU Pottsville have been out meeting with business owners, asking what they want from their banking,” Mr Kingston said.

“It’s important that we provide services that are relevant to the town.

“We also want to know what Pottsville groups or community organisations need a helping hand – if there’s something that needs doing in the town that has tangible benefits for the town we want people to tell us.”

He said branch manager Sharon McGiffen who was “a Pottsville girl through and through” was thrilled to bring BCU to her home.

Pottsville Beach Business Association president and pharmacy owner Tania Murdock said the branch would be “very handy”.

“For years and years we’ve talked about getting a bank,” she said.

“It’s pretty exciting from a business point of view. It’s such a drag having to travel up to Kingscliff.”