Bus changes backed by MSP Liz
Stagecoach coaches serving Perth and hospitals in Tayside are to be upgraded to boost access for people with mobility issues.
The X7 service connects Perth Royal Infirmary, Ninewells in Dundee and the north east of Scotland, but some customers found difficulties using the buses.
But after the matter was raised at Holyrood, Transport Minister Humza Yousaf has confirmed that the Scottish Government has been in contact with Stagecoach and Mobility Access Committee Scotland over the service.
Mid-Scotland and Fife MSP Liz Smith, had pressured both the government and Stagecoach following concerns that people with health and mobility issues were finding it difficult to use the service.
The 333 service between PRI and Ninewells was stopped earlier in the year and replaced with the X7 route.
The new £750,000 X7 coaches have fewer accessible spaces and concerns have also been raised as to their suitability for disembarking at PRI.
Ms Smith said: “I was pleased to learn that moves are being made behind the scenes to improve the usability of the X7 service as a number of constituents have expressed serious concerns as to its viability for disabled passengers.
“Buses are a lifeline for rural communities and I am calling for the Scottish Government to change tact and consider extending the free bus pass scheme to community transport, particularly in Perth and Kinross.” Liz Smith MSP