Link has implemented changes to its rules and systems to support the free cash machine scheme, and as a result, banking institutions issuing Link cards can now offer financial incentives to cash machine operators that install and operate free cash machines in certain areas.
The move follows an agreement in December 2006 between banks, building societies, ATM operators, members of parliament and consumer groups to widen the free cash machine network in target communities without free machines.
In 2006, 309 priority areas were identified across the UK that lacked convenient access to a free-of-charge ATM among communities of 3,000+ citizens. Consumer groups and financial institutions agreed that a total of about 600 new free machines are needed.
Since the agreement, 384 new free machines have been installed or are under contract to be installed. This is significant progress towards deploying the full 600.
I am delighted with the progress being made on this initiative. The uptake for these free machines in just three months has been remarkable, commented Treasury committee chairman John McFall MP, who chaired the ATM Working Group. The fact that firm sites have been found and agreed for nearly 400 of these machines already is a clear signal that they were much needed and welcome in the communities they are now or soon will be serving. What we need now is a final push to reach the target figure of 600, and the financial incentives to machine operators should help to achieve this goal.