FIVE EAST END BUS SERVICES AXED IN TWO WEEKS
Campaigners hit out at ‘unacceptable’ cuts to routes
COMMUNITIES fear they could be cut off after several bus servies in Glasgow were cut.
Campaigners say they are being left isolated after First Bus removed a number of services serving the East End.
Those living in the area say they rely on the buses to get them to hospital appointments, work and to the local supermarkets.
Get Glasgow Moving’s Rebecca Menzies said: “It’s completely unacceptable.”
COMMUNITIES in Glasgow’s East End fear they could be left behind after public transport bosses in the city cut multiple local bus services in the past fortnight.
Politicians and transport activists have raised concerns with First Bus following their decision to cut a number of services travelling west into Glasgow in the latest swathe of hits to routes.
The 19A, 36, 36A, 60, 60A and X1/X1A services have all been removed or replaced by the transport provider.
This follows outrage earlier this week after a decision to axe a vital link between Glasgow and Hamilton was branded ‘outrageous’.
While a number of express services have been put in place, campaigners say areas are still being left isolated.
Get Glasgow Moving’s Rebecca Menzies said: “It’s completely unacceptable. It’s not just about express services that take people into the city centre. People need to get around their community frequently and reliably.
“We hope that given the recent increase in cuts to vital services, the council and other local authorities will take the calls to take First into municipal ownership seriously.
“We can’t continue to let our communities be isolated by bus companies.”
Public pressure is also growing on First after a petition was launched to save the 19A and X1 services.
Those in the area say they rely on the buses to get them to hospital appointments, work and to the local supermarkets.
Those who represent the area have said the decision was made with profit in mind, not people, and have called for a meeting with First.
Councillor Allan Casey said: “Over the last few years residents have seen their bus service from First Bus decimated.
“For many residents this is the only way they can get out to do their shopping.
“It would appear the decision to axe the 19A is simply driven by profit and has no regard how this will affect local communities.”
Councillor Christina Cannon added: “I am extremely disappointed at the decision to scrap the 19A bus service without any consultation and limited notification.
“It is a huge loss for my constituents in Robroyston who use this bus to get to work and carry out daily activities.”
First Glasgow’s Graeme MacFarlane said:“At First Glasgow, we conduct a review of our network on a regular basis to ensure our coverage remains in line with demand for our services. The 19A route is only carrying an average of 4-5 passengers per journey on the section out to Robroyston, whilst the journey time to the city centre is quite long at up to 38 minutes.
“In our latest changes we are introducing a new X2 service which will provide a fast service from Robroyston direct via the M80 in to the city.
“Customers on Royston Road will be served by an increased frequency service which will run every 20 minutes between Glasgow and Easterhouse.”