Views wanted on local bus services
A petition is asking bus users in Perth and Kinross for their views on public transport.
It has been launched by Green MSP Mark Ruskell, who says the region needs a better bus service.
The survey follows on from a similar exercise in neighbouring Stirling, which showed a high level of dissatisfaction with bus services there.
The questionnaire allows passengers to give feedback on the quality, reliability and value for money of bus services and results will then be used to inform the Mid Scotland and Fife MSP’s campaign to improve bus services.
Mr Ruskell said:“As restrictions ease and bus timetables return to normal, the time has come to think about how we can improve public transport in and around Perth.
“It’s understandable that people felt less inclined to use public transport at the height of the pandemic, but passenger numbers were dwindling even before COVID-19.
“In the face of a climate emergency we need to be doing all we can to encourage people out of cars and onto public transport but that means providing a clean, reliable and affordable service.”
He added:“The Transport Bill, which passed through the Scottish Parliament late last year, means local authorities can now run their own bus services, replicating the successful model used by Lothian Buses in Edinburgh.
“If the private sector is unwilling or unable to provide an effective service which connects our communities efficiently at an affordable price then the public sector can now step in.”
Links to the survey can be found on Mr Ruskell’s social medai pages or constituents can write directly to him.