Bus users to be given say on future of city services

DUNDEE’S largest bus provider is set to meet with the public to discuss possible changes to its services.

Xplore Dundee is holding a review and consultation meeting to “help maximise community engagement” as it draws up proposals for a network review later this summer.

The event will be held at the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCD) Open Heavens in Graham Street on Monday.

It is being organised in conjunction with the Stobswell Forum community group.

The group has emphasised that Xplore’s engagement with the public “is not a single event” and the meeting will “play a part of that process”.

The firm normally makes changes to its timetables every August but some previous moves have proved controversial — including the replacement of the 23 service in the city’s Woodside area which saw residents launch a petition.

Stuart Fairweather, a communities officer with Dundee City Council, was approached by Xplore to organise the event in conjunction with the forum.

He said: “The public will be looking for the opportunity to discuss their concerns and raise them with Xplore.

“A petition was previously launched highlighting concerns about changes to the 23 service.

“This meeting will give the public a chance to discuss issues like this which have been raised historically.

“The issue with the number 23 service is something that is raised consistently with both the Stobswell Forum and the community planning partnership.

“The main concerns are that the changes meant a reduction in services at weekends and evenings.

“This resulted in problems accessing doctor’s surgeries and other lifeline services.

“There was a lot of local concern and anger at that time.”

Mr Fairweather added: “Hopefully the consultation will give Xplore the opportunity to show they have taken local concerns on board.

“I would urge anyone with an interest in these services to come along.”

The meeting starts at 11.30am and will last around an hour.

Xplore, which is part of the National Express Group, has been asked to comment but had not responded by the time of going to press.