No more conductors on 73 bus service, Stagecoach confirms

The operators of one of the few remaining bus services to still have conductors, or clippies, have announced they will not return.

Union bosses say 31 workers are at risk of redundancy after Stagecoach East Scotland confirmed the decision for its number 73 route, which travels between Arbroath and Ninewells Hospital, blaming the impact of Covid-19.

The route was one of the few remaining bus services outside London still to run with its own dedicated conductor, almost 40 years after most other bus services turned to being staffed only by a driver.

Stagecoach East Scotland said the decision was “unavoidable” but said the clippies on number 73 were a “proud” part of its history.

She said: “Following a review of our operations, we have made the decision not to reintroduce the conductor role on our 73 route.

“This will have no impact on the operation of our services, and customers will be able to buy their tickets from the driver, or in advance via our website or app.”

However, the operator is “strongly encouraging” customers to use contactless payment if possible.

A spokeswoman added: “This is consistent with the service we provide on our bus services across the rest of the country. We know our conductors on the 73 route have been a well-loved part of our community and a proud part of our history.

“However, as is the case with many organisations, we are taking very difficult but unavoidable decisions to manage the impact of Covid-19.”

Unite said it was a “worrying” period for the affected staff.

Picture: Kenny Smith. The service travels between Arbroath and Ninewells Hospital.