New transport legislation brought in

Legislation to improve bus services and implement low emission zones (LEZS) in Scotland’s cities has been introduced at Holyrood.

The Scottish Government’s Transport Bill aims to give councils more flexibility in running bus services, through partnership working with operators, local franchising or running services themselves.

The Bill allows for the creation of low emission zones which will be under civil rather than criminal enforcement, and allows ministers to set consistent standards for emissions, penalties, and exemptions within LEZS.

Under the provisions double parking and parking on pavements will be banned, smart ticketing technology standardised across the country and the regulation of road works improved.

Transport Minister Humza Yousaf said: “Partnership is at the centre of our proposals, with a new model for local authorities to work with bus operators to revitalise services. We are also providing clearer options for authorities to pursue local franchising or provide services themselves in appropriate circumstances.

“Beyond bus services, this Bill will allow for decriminalised enforcement of low emission zones, double parking and parking on pavements.

“This will help transform our towns and cities into cleaner, more accessible and more pleasant spaces to travel and enjoy.”

Opposition parties described the Bill as a “missed opportunity”.

Scottish Labour’s Colin Smyth said: “Under the SNP’S plans, public ownership of bus routes can only happen in very restricted circumstances.

“This would leave local councils picking up the pieces, running the very few loss-making routes whilst transport tycoons line their pockets on the rest of the bus network.”

Scottish Conservative Donald Cameron MSP said: “Motorists already feel like the Scottish Government has an anti-car agenda, and some of these proposals would exacerbate that.

“Any changes must be done with agreement of businesses and people who rely on their car to get around either for work or leisure.”

Picture: PA. Transport Minister Humza Yousaf said partnership was at the heart of the proposals.