Free Saturday bus scheme approved

BUS passengers will travel free across Perth and Kinross on one Saturday each month as part of the region’s council budget agreed yesterday.

The £120,000 scheme was one of a number of surprise additions to the 2024-25 spending plans.

Councillors rejected a recommendation from officials that they cut funding for local bus routes by £775,000.

Members agreed to look into a business case for setting up a new bus service in the region, involving a publicly-owned company or a public interest or franchise model.

Councillors heard the need had become more pressing in the wake of Tuesday’s news that Stagecoach is considering axing a number of Perth and Kinross services.

Labour councillor Alasdair Bailey said villagers in his Carse of Gowrie ward could be left with no daytime services.

He told councillors: “This is coming for your wards, too. Mark my words.”

Elsewhere, councillors agreed not to cut spending on the events budget.

The proposal sparked an outcry when it emerged in council papers last week.

Iain Fenwick, director of Perthshire Local, branded it “a ridiculous idea”.

The switch means gatherings such as Perth’s Christmas lights switch-on will still go ahead.

But there was recognition that the council will have to work harder with firms and others to promote its events – and prove it is getting value for money.

Councillors rejected a number of other cuts put forward by officials.

Funding for primary school swimming lessons and breakfast clubs will continue.

But reductions in gritting and road sweeping will not now go ahead.

The council will also continue to fund existing school crossing patrol posts.

Flood prevention measures in Dunkeld and Perth’s Buckie Braes will receive a £1m boost.