Stephen Kerr

“Whether you are a motorist, use public transport or cycle, we all need an improved road network. This has been an ongoing issue across Scotland for many years and the backlog of repairs, particularly for rural roads, has gone far beyond local authority budgets. There has to be a comprehensive national solution to tackle this increasing problem.

Public transport and travel strategies work best when co-ordinated, affordable and flexible. This encompasses everything from bus services, to cycle routes, electric charging points and a sensible approach to parking. There have recently been many issues with the changes to FirstBus timetables, and I was particularly pleased to hear that some of the routes, adversely affected, have now been re-instated.

However, there is still much more to be done for many of our more isolated communities. For example, although the subsidised taxi service operating across large parts of the constituency is an excellent concept it could be much more user friendly with better booking times and wider coverage.

The principle which should guide our approach to public transport is simple; to ensure that people can get where they need to be when needed. Getting to your job, doctors or hospital appointment, college course or after school club should not be the major problem it is for many at present.

The City Region Deal, the subject of a previous article, is an opportunity to improve infrastructure and the quality of public transport for the whole Stirling area. The Observer has asked all candidates their views on a number of important subjects that are all interconnected. They require a strategic approach and joined up thinking to ensure they are all tackled effectively for the people of Stirling. Your MP should be actively engaged in them individually and collectively.”