Evening Telegraph (First Edition)
Bus firm’s cuts amid rise in passengers
A RAFT of proposed Stagecoach cuts in Perthshire comes despite bus passenger numbers increasing by 29% across Scotland.
A new report by Transport Scotland shows that 301 million journeys were made by bus in 2022 throughout the country.
The study explained that travelling by bus was by far the most commonly used form of public transport making up 76% of such journeys, compared to 16% by rail.
Stagecoach blamed a reduction in passenger numbers as the main reason for the company axing and reducing vital services across Perthshire.
Announcing its initial plans earlier this year, it said: “In recent years we have been impacted by significantly reduced passenger numbers postpandemic, with several passenger groups not returning to previous travel habits.”
Perthshire North SNP MSP John Swinney believes the report is a clear indication that bus services are essential.
The politician held numerous public meetings in Perthshire when the cuts were first announced to hear the concerns of the affected communities.
The bus company’s plans to axe the X7 and 16 route would leave the Carse of Gowrie without a commercial bus service.
Mr Swinney said: “With over 300 million journeys made in the space of a year, it is clear affordable and accessible bus services remain an essential facet of modern life.
“Ensuring that the public have access to reliable public transport ensures people are able to travel for work, shopping and socialising, whilst also playing a key role in our collective efforts to tackle the climate emergency.”
Stagecoach is in talks with Perth and Kinross Council regarding the situation but have already gone back on their initial promise to delay implementation of the new timetable until May 27.
The changes will now be made on May 13.
Stagecoach was approached for further comment.