Commuters complain that scenic views are spoiled by dirty buses

Bus travellers are missing out on Perthshire’s “stunning” views due to dirty vehicles, it has been claimed.

Passengers have complained about the external cleanliness of Stagecoach buses, saying they are unable to see out of the windows.

The Perth-based bus firm says the issue has been caused by a combination of a broken bus wash and winter driving conditions.

One commuter, who did not want to be named, said: “The buses are black – you can’t see out the windows.

“We live in one of the most beautiful parts of Scotland and we can’t see it if we are on a bus.

“They are coming out like that first thing in the morning – they are not being cleaned at all. Some of the insides are dire too.”

It is understood that Stagecoach bosses are awaiting a part for their bus wash and have been unable to hand wash the vehicles due to recent low temperatures.

A spokeswoman for Stagecoach East Scotland said: “Unfortunately we currently have an issue with the bus wash at our Perth depot which has affected our daily wash schedule.

“We would like to apologise for any inconvenience caused and we are working to rectify this situation.

“In normal circumstances (and at other depots at present) our buses are cleaned daily, however the high mileage our vehicles do, as well as the current road conditions and low temperatures can affect the exterior of the vehicles throughout the course of the day.”

Ian Crowder, spokesman for the AA, said that road salt is the main reason vehicles become so dirty in winter.

He said: “Even when it’s dry it gets broken up and thrown in the air. It’s also very absorbent, so when it’s wet it tends to gather the dirt, which sticks and means your car appears to be far more dirty than at other times of the year.”