The state of a vital bus service between Callander and Stirling has been slammed – with delays labelled as “unacceptable”.
The C59 bus, which serves the two areas as well as Doune, was one of the services taken over by McGill’s when they assumed control of the Stirling network from First last year.
But there has been frustration that some buses on the service, particularly the 7.47am, are not turning up as scheduled on the timetable, forcing those reliant on it for work or other travel to seek alternative options.
Mid Scotland and Fife MSP Alexander Stewart has now written to McGills chiefs over the problems and said a similar overture from Stirling Council had so far gone unanswered by the operator.
Mr Stewart said: “All my correspondents are worried and seriously frustrated that this service is not turning up on a regular basis as advertised in the timetable, and this is having the unacceptable knock-on effect of customers not arriving for work or appointments on time.
“I cautiously welcomed McGill’s proactiveness in taking over a number of First Bus routes over the preceding months and years, however I very much hope that my initial concerns aren’t about to bear fruit.
“I believe that Mr Phillips (McGill’s General Manager) hasn’t responded to my colleagues at Stirling Council thus far, so I would appreciate a timely response to my own letter, followed by a face-to-face meeting, not least as I am curious as to how the C59 service appears to be so sporadic in the mornings.”
In response, a McGill’s Scotland East spokesperson attributed many of the problems across the Stirling network to issues inherited from First during the takeover, as well as the pressure on the fleet caused by winter conditions.
The spokesperson said: “McGill’s Group took over the former First East Scotland business just over four months ago and we have been working tirelessly on plans to improve the local fleet.
“Of the 257 local buses we acquired from First, 94 were immediately taken off the road as they did not meet the calibre of vehicle we operate and that passengers should rightly expect.
“Unfortunately, the winter weather has taken its toll on buses that remained in use, with many unable to continue service, leading to journey cancellations which we apologise to customers for.
“Whilst we have been able to bring in reserve vehicles from elsewhere within the McGill’s Group, at times it has not been sufficient to plug the gaps that exist within the ageing fleet that has been serving the region.
“Our future plans include approximately 60 additional vehicles to be introduced to the region by Spring 2023 and we appreciate the patience shown by passengers whilst this investment gets underway. We will continue to engage with political representatives to discuss these plans.”
