Stagecoach route proposals in Perth and Kinross delayed
It's while the impact of the changes is assessed
Last updated 9th Mar 2024
Proposed changes to Stagecoach bus services in Perth and Kinross will be delayed for a month whilst their impact is assessed.
The local authority’s chief executive Thomas Glen met with Stagecoach bosses on Friday to discuss the bus company’s proposals.
Axing the number 16 between Monday and Saturday was one of those, prompting Carse of Gowrie councillors to express concern it would leave people in the community cut off.
Perth and Kinross Council leader Councillor Grant Laing said: “Bus travel is vital for many of our residents, but we understand the commercial pressures facing Stagecoach.
“Passenger numbers are still below pre-Covid levels, and they need to ensure their services are sustainable in the long-term.
“I am pleased Stagecoach is willing to hold off on making any changes to services until we can, working together, fully understand their potential impact on our communities.
“This will give time for the Council to work with Stagecoach on how best to deliver services where and when they are most needed.
“Stagecoach has a long history in Perth and Kinross and the company has invested significantly in its electric fleet in Perth.
“It is heartening they recognise the concerns many residents have about these changes and are willing to delay their introduction so we can fully explore what steps can be taken to mitigate them.”
No changes to services, other than the X7, will be introduced before May 27, a month later than Stagecoach initially proposed.
Douglas Robertson, Managing Director at Stagecoach East Scotland said: “Our proposals are designed to improve the longer term sustainability of the bus network across Perth & Kinross, whilst also recognising the financial pressures on bus operators and the reality of very low numbers of passengers using services in certain areas, especially following the pandemic which changed many travel patterns. We appreciate these proposals will involve change for some people and any decisions will not be taken lightly.
“Proposed changes to bus services in Perth and Kinross will be delayed for a month to allow Stagecoach and Perth and Kinross Council more time to evaluate and mitigate their impact.
"The views of local people who use the Stagecoach bus network are very important to us, and that's why we're keen to hear from our customers during this consultation period."