Light at the end of the tunnel for bus service users?
September 1, 2005 10:36 AM
SPT are considering alternative options to improve the 249 bus service
Jo Swinson MP has welcomed the recognition by Strathclyde Passenger Transport that the 249 bus service is not meeting passenger needs, and their willingness to find a solution.
Jo yesterday met with Strathclyde Passenger Transport Director General Aidan O'Donnell and Head of Operations George Heaney, and hailed progress in resolving the dispute over the future of the 249 bus service.
Afterwards, Jo commented, "My meeting with the heads of Strathclyde Passenger Transport was very positive. I put the concerns of local residents about the new 249 bus services to the SPT officers, who really seemed to be listening and keen to find a solution."
"They accepted that there were problems with the service as it is, and promised to look at alternative options over the next few weeks, with the aim of finding a solution to meet the transport needs of people like the constituents who have contacted me."
The contract for the 49/149 bus service, running from Glasgow to Milngavie via Gartnavel Hospital and Anniesland, expired earlier this Summer. SPT did not to renew the contract, due to low usage.
The Bearsden - Milngavie service is still operating, but residents in Westerton and Mosshead currently face taking two buses if they want to travel to Anniesland, Gartnavel Hospital, the West End of Glasgow or the City Centre.
Jo has been working closely with local Councillors, especially Cllr Eric Gotts, who also met with Mr Heaney earlier this Summer to discuss the future of the bus service.
Local opposition to the cancellation of the service has been vocal, and the current provision for travel into Glasgow has been criticised as inadequate.
"Clearly the current 249 bus service is not working well for passengers. The service is so tightly timetabled that it often late and is unreliable. The new route doesn't extend to locations such as Anniesland and Gartnavel. Few passengers is also bad news for the bus company."
"Although it is unlikely that the previous route will be reinstated, I feel heartened that the views of local people have been taken on board and hopeful that a solution will be found. I will monitor this situation and look forward to hearing more from SPT shortly."
What would you like to do next?
-
Subscribe for updates
Follow the party's activity on...
- Twitter:
- Liberal Democrats
- Facebook:
- Liberal Democrats
- YouTube:
- Liberal Democrats