Repairs service under fire as vandalised shelter untouched

Disappointment has been expressed that a damaged bus shelter in St Andrews has remained untouched for more than half a year.

Two of the translucent screens at the bus shelter in Bogward Road were smashed in late 2017 and have still to be fixed – prompting anger from residents.

The issue has been taken up by councillor Brian Thomson, who has been pursuing the matter with council officers for several weeks now.

“The smashed screens are extremely unsightly and give a really bad impression on what is one of the main thoroughfares in the town,” he said.

“Whilst it was irresponsible vandalism that resulted in the damage, it’s not acceptable that such simple repairs have still not been carried out, almost eight months after being first reported.

“I was advised by a council officer that a work order was issued in the last financial year – which would have been in March or earlier – to the external company that carries out such repairs for the council. It’s now July and still no repairs.

“If the company cannot deliver in terms of carrying out such minor repairs, it really should be time to look elsewhere for a company who can provide the expected level of service.

“Many residents are, understandably, unimpressed with length of time it’s taking to organise the repairs, with one resident noting that ‘the lack of action’ appears to suggest genuine lack of serious interest in minor but important repairs.

“It’s hard to argue with that, and the lack of progress is very disappointing.”

Kevin Smith, lead consultant for network condition, said Fife Council had been aware of the damage since December.

He said: “Bus shelter replacement typically takes between 12 and 16 weeks, allowing for specialist procurement.

“The work order for this overdue shelter replacement sits with an external contractor and we have contacted them on several occasions to highlight the outstanding work and repeated complaints from local residents.

“We’re looking into this unfortunate poor performance and hope to have it resolved as soon as possible.”

Councillor Brian Thomson at the vandalised shelter.