Bus changes under fire from group

Bus services in Troon may struggle to cope with planned changes, says the passenger group.

Stagecoach has announced a plethora of route switches within the town.

And while some plans have been praised, the Ayrshire Bus Users Group says it is a “very poor outcome” for the Logan Drive area.

The group, which met in Troon, had “serious concerns about the capacity of the number 10” route.

They believe demand from Muirhead will soar as a direct service into town rather than being able to use the 14.

A bus users spokeswoman said: “Many elderly are concerned that they will not be able to get on the 10 in Logan Drive to get to Troon for appointments with doctors, dentists and hairdressers.

“Also there will now be only the 10 bus servicing the town from Jubilee Road to Central Avenue, so there is no direct access to either Irvine or Ayr.”

Fraser Smith, commercial director of Stagecoach West Scotland, said no problems were anticipated.

He said: “I don’t share the group’s concern and there should be no issue with capacity on the number 10 service.

“And if there are any unusual peak loads, we can then address any problems.

“I would highlight all the improvements to our services through Troon, with the 14 now serving Monkton every 45 minutes rather than hourly.

“Loans will also be connected to Ayr and Irvine every 45 minutes with the 14, rather than every two hours on the 585.”