Concern at lack of local input on bus plans

A north-east MSP has said rural bus passengers in areas like Deeside have had insufficient time to respond to vital service changes.

The Tory MSP for Aberdeenshire West Alexander Burnett has written to Stagecoach Bluebird outlining concerns over its consultation on timetable changes.

Passengers are worried that there were no consultation events in Deeside, despite major changes proposed there, including a cut in the number of services between Lumphanan and Torphins.

In his letter to the firm, Mr Burnett said: “The consultation events are

“None of the consultation events take placeinDeeside”

located in Aberdeen city, Peterhead, Fraserburgh and Ellon – none of which are located within my constituency.

“None of the consultation events take place in Deeside. It is concerning that an area that is due to face even further reductions to bus services does not have a local opportunity to ask questions and put forward comments.”

In response, Stagecoach’s commercial director Daniel Laird said he “regretted” being unable to hold events in Deeside, admitting passengers from Lumphanan and Torphins were concerned.

He added: “We scheduled a number of in-person events such as in Aberdeen Bus Station.

“Regrettably, our operating area and the wide range of communities we serve mean we were not able to hold events in all locations.

“However, we feel that using central locations allows the highest amount of customers to contribute to the process.”