Some bank customers could face new charges for using cash machines, despite a promise by operators not to levy them, it has been reported.

While Alliance and Leicester plans to introduce charges for customers of other banks on a number of ATMs which were previously free for all, Abbey National says it won't introduce charges but will close 100 loss-making cashpoints.

Forum Response: Building Societies Association

Adrian Coles, director general of the Building Societies Association, told ePolitix.com: "Building societies led the campaign to stop banks introducing charges two years ago and we are very disappointed that they seem to be trying their luck again, but this time by the back door.

"Building societies operate almost 2000 ATMs in the UK. We have contacted our members with ATMs today and they have all confirmed they have no intention to charge consumers for withdrawing their own money. Indeed, some have plans to increase their ATM networks.

"It will be customers who live in rural areas who lose out - they are effectively being charged for being inconvenient for banks. Many societies have kept branches open in rural areas as that is what their members want.

"It also hits customers who want to withdraw small amounts of cash harder, especially those on low incomes. If you take out £10 cash you could be paying over £1 in fees to the banks.

"This yet again proves that customers are better off with building societies, as they do not need to make a profit from customers to pay to shareholders."

Forum Response: British Bankers' Association

Simon Pitkeathley, executive director of the British Bankers' Association, told ePolitix.com: "Following news reports today the agreement reached between all LINK members, concerning cash machine charges, has not changed in anyway. Most customers can use LINK cash machines free of charge.

"There are two exceptions to this. Firstly, if you use a store, credit or charge card and your card issuer charges a cash advance fee.

"Secondly, if you use a 'convenience' cash machine, which are generally located in areas where lower numbers of people are expected to use them, in which case the machine owner may make a charge In this instance you will be notified on-screen of any charge at the time of the transaction and will be given the option to cancel without charge.

"All banks and building societies (as well as independent providers) make their own commercial decisions concerning the locations of their cash machines."