Protest held at Highland Council HQ over Inverness Bus services
Frustrated members of the public voiced concerns over delays and cancellations.
Last updated 29th Jun 2022
A protest was held earlier today over current bus services in the Highland capital.
Frustrated members of the public appeared outside Highland Council headquarters this morning to voice concerns over delays and cancellations.
Even though Highland Council aren't the licensing authority for services in the area, protestors hope their action may persuade them to engage talks with operator Stagecoach.
Stagecoach say while they're running 90% of the scheduled network, they are currently affected by the UK-wide skills shortage.
Pattern with bus cancellations
Bill Anderson was one of those at the protest.
He said: "They can take it further, they can talk to Stagecoach.
"Stagecoach may listen to them, but they may not.
"I’ve sent an email to the Highland Council Chief Executive and it was passed onto Stagecoach.
"We’re still waiting on a reply."
Bill outlined what issues he's currently having with the 2 and 3 services.
He added: "What’s happening is both these buses are being cancelled at the same time.
"They say it’s down to driver shortage, but it’s not down to driver shortage.
"This has been happening for months. It’s a pattern."
Potential solution
In a desperate attempt to find a solution, Bill's made a couple of recommendations to Stagecoach.
He said: "Possibly put the buses, instead of a half hourly service, onto an hourly service with reliability.
"Guaranteeing that these buses are going to be running.
"As opposed to a half hour service where there’s no guarantees.
"I’d like to see Stagecoach engage more with the general public, instead of continuing to come out with the reteric that it’s a driver shortage."
UK-wide skills shortage
Stagecoach Highlands have apologised for current issues with services.
A spokesperson said: "We are sorry that we are not able to run our normal high quality of service at this time.
"While we are running 90% of the scheduled network, we are being affected by the UK-wide skills shortage at the moment.
"A recent Open University report shows that 70% of organisations in Scotland say they are currently facing staff shortages.
"We remain absolutely committed to deliver the best networks we can for local communities.
"We are also working around the clock to recruit new drivers.
"We are continuing to keep customers updated through our website and social media channels.
"Customers wanting to speak to a member of our team about services can contact our newly opened customer contact centre in Perth by emailing customer.services@stagecoachbus.com or calling 0345 241 8000."
Highland Council posted a statement on their social media channels yesterday regarding the issue.
They said: "We want to make it clear that the Council is not the licensing authority for bus services."