Bus passengers have their say

Nearly 50 people attended an online meeting recently to discuss issues surrounding the region’s bus services.

The session was hosted by Mid Scotland and Fife Green MSP Mark Ruskell.

Ongoing issues with service cancellations – particularly in terms of communication from companies to passengers, as well as frustration with service withdrawals – were among the concerns raised.

Mr Ruskell invited constituents from across the region to be part of the discussion.

A spokesperson for Stagecoach, bus passenger representatives and campaigners were also in attendance.

The MSP said: “Over the past months I’ve heard from so many of my constituents about their frustration with local bus services – from reliability and timetabling, to affordability and the quality of vehicles.

“I was delighted to see such an amazing response to our virtual summit with folks sharing their experiences of bus services where they live and their vision for improvements.

“It was a good chance for Stagecoach to hear directly from their customers and commit to improvements.

“There was good discussion about how we can work together to keep communities connected.

“I was glad to see Stagecoach offer to follow up on specific issues raised at the meeting.

“I’ll also be writing to them to share the full feedback from my constituents.

“The Transport Minister, Jenny Gilruth MSP, also said that she wants to receive a report on the meeting.”

Mr Ruskell went on to add: “Everyone across Scotland deserves a reliable, affordable and accessible bus service.

“The challenges facing the network are stark.

“But our meeting is proof that our communities are full of exciting solutions and ideas for change.

“In the new year, we’ll be looking at ways to take things forward with individual communities to ensure sustainable and lasting improvements to bus services.”