Council takes a “positive step forward” to fixing the transport crisis
A new fleet of electric vehicles will be bought with money from the levelling-up fund.
Last updated 24th Jun 2025
Dumfries and Galloway’s council leader says awarding 45 new bus contracts to local smaller operators is a 'positive step forward' to fixing the transport crisis.
A new fleet of electric vehicles will be bought with money from the levelling-up fund, which will help the local authority work towards achieving its net-zero target.
Although there is some uncertainty about commercial routes from Dumfries to Stranraer, the council leader wants to assure passengers that there are more announcements to come.
Stephen Thompson says, “I know there are still maybe questions that need answering as the contract negotiations and procurement unfold, but I think this is a welcome step forward and I think it’s actually quite positive, especially for local providers in the local area.
“I think this signals our intention to try and provide a more secure public bus network.”
He adds, “This is a big step forward, especially given there is a long-termness about the contracts, which I think provides a bit of predictability and stability, which we haven’t had for a while.
“There will be some routes that might have variation in them, but I think this means that there is a lot more security about the routes we can provide.”
However, with that being said, a spokesperson on behalf of the council and SWestrans says, “The delivery of the commercially operated routes in the region is not the responsibility of SWestrans or Dumfries and Galloway Council.
“It is a separate process requiring notification to the Office of the Traffic Commissioner. SWestrans understands that local operators are considering their positions in relation to the routes in question.
“However, if it becomes apparent that these routes will not be covered through the commercial process, SWestrans and the Council will consider the opportunities available to provide support.”
Thompson says that it’s an encouraging sign that the council, SWestrans, and local providers can work together on this to continue delivering for the public.
Yesterday, South Scotland MSP Colin Smyth challenged the announcement and said that the council should consider having its own bus firm or provide a similar service to Lothian Buses.
Thompson responded, saying it’s not being ruled out: “Going forward, we have to be open-minded. It’s not something we can do today or tomorrow; however, it’s certainly something we’ll explore. Public transport in Dumfries and Galloway is very hard enough to crack, so we have to remain open-minded.”