Aberdeen Passengers could abandon Union Street says First
They want to see bus access restored to the major city route - what do you think?
One of Aberdeen's major bus firms is calling for the re-opening of Union Street.
First Bus say they've had a huge response to their online survey with many passengers saying bus travel is less appealing due to pedestrianisation of one of the main shopping and hospitality locations in the city.
The questionnaire, which had 1135 responses, returned a verdict from many that if bus access does not return to the entirety of Union Street, then some passengers may abandon the street altogether.
Speaking about the findings of the survey, David Phillips, Operations Director for First Aberdeen said: “The findings of this survey have shone a compelling light on damaging effect on bus travel experience that the Spaces for People measures on Union Street have had on the use and perception of bus as a real and accessible way of moving around our city.”
“Based on this research, over 80% of our passengers want to see buses return to Union Street and it’s clear that bus users are finding the measures in place a real barrier when it comes to accessing services, whether that be bus routes, or retail and business facilities in the vicinity of the closed road section.”
“The most alarming finding of all though, is that nearly 60% of those asked are considering changing their travel movements to avoid Union Street altogether and shop of access services elsewhere entirely.”
Alex Nicoll, SNP Group Leader, Aberdeen City Council said:
“I would like to thank First for undertaking this survey, which provides us with a clear picture of what folk think of the closure of the central section of Union Street to public transport.
“It is clear from the survey, and from looking at the congestion caused by the closure of Union Street, that it is time to return public transport to the whole length of Union Street. With street closures planned for the Christmas Village we need to ensure public transport can get into our city centre."
Mr Phillips added:
“When you consider that some of the responders would have to continue to make the journey for work etc. it is especially concerning that such a high % of people would likely travel elsewhere if this was to become a permanent solution. It does bring into question the city centre remaining a destination of choice. We don’t want to see that happen and hope that we see a return to buses operating the full length of union street with key bus stops along the route reinstated”.
We've contacted Aberdeen City Council for comment.