Locals in Rosewell have branded the withdrawal of the only regular, direct service between the area and Edinburgh’s city centre ‘senseless’.
Lothian Buses announced they would be pulling the 49 service, which locals say will leave people in the area ‘stranded’. The transport firm have said a new service, the 46, will take passengers to the Royal Infirmary where they can then change onto various services.
Kelly Parry, SNP councillor for Midlothian West, said she is ‘deeply concerned’ about the decision. She, along with other residents, also noted the speed at which the area is growing with a housing development currently in progress.
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Ms Parry said: “The decision, taken without consultation, means there is no direct bus service from Rosewell to Edinburgh, which for many residents is essential for work and education access. People are rightly concerned about this, and the feedback from residents has been significant.
“In a growing area like Rosewell I fail to see the logic of this decision, and I will be taking this up with Lothian Buses on behalf on all residents.”
After posting to social media, Ms Parry received several responses from locals who were quick to voice their opinions. Andrew Hiddleston said: “Its the only bus service that serves Rosewell People, we will be stranded without the 49.”
Margaret Williams added: “For a growing village with more houses being built, we will now have to take two buses to get to Edinburgh.”
Jennifer Phibbs had similar thoughts. She said: “Its a disgrace that there will be no bus to or from Rosewell, a village which is growing exponentially, with a mix of young families and older people.
“So much for encouraging people to give up their cars and use public transport. What about people who don’t drive? Are they to be left marooned in Rosewell?”
Graham Roberts expressed: “Truly baffling decision. Thankfully, there isn’t another hundred houses being built…Oh wait.”
A spokesperson for Lothian said: “Lothian is committed to providing a safe, reliable and value for money public transport service for all of our customers.
“From 28 May, Rosewell will be served by our new Service 46 to the Royal Infirmary, where those requiring onward travel can connect to a number of services for the city centre and beyond. At peak times, Rosewell will continue to be served by our Service X31 to the City Centre.”
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