Bus services subsidised by SPT
We subsidise hundreds of bus services in our area which may not be comercially viable but are necessary for the community.
Why does SPT subsidise certain bus services?One of the biggest problems with the de-regulated market is that private bus operators can withdraw or change services simply by giving the Traffic Commissioner appropriate notice that this is what they are going to do. Sometimes this can leave rural towns and villages without any public transport at all or without evening or weekend services.
In cases like these, SPT can step in to subsidise bus services that are regarded as "socially necessary" where it wouldn't pay a private operator to run them.
SPT's funds are limited and we have to look carefully at the number of passengers who are likely to use a service, the cost per passenger carried and whether or not there are other public transport options available before we decide to provide a subsidised bus service.
Where SPT subsidises a bus service the vehicle will probably be in our livery and will be a modern, low-floor bus to make it easier for elderly people, disabled people and people with buggies and prams to get on and off.
- Subsidised bus service timetables
- Demand Responsive bus services
As well as funding hundreds of local bus services, SPT operates Demand Responsive bus services in the form of Ring'n'Ride and Dial-a-Bus.
Ring'n'Ride is available to people who live in rural areas and have no other public transport links. The service provides direct links between specific rural areas, and also from rural areas to town centres, leisure facilities, train stations and hospitals.
Find out more about SPT's Ring'n'Ride services.
Dial-a-Bus services are available to passengers who have difficulty using public transport. SPT operates 34 wheelchair-accessible buses that pick up elderly, infirm or disabled people from their homes and provide them with transport.
- How to comment on, or complain about a subsidised bus service
If you would like to comment on any bus service supported by SPT, please download and complete the appropriate comment card. Each card is in pdf format and opens a new window.
Comment on a subsidised local bus service.
Comment on a Demand Responsive bus service
(Dial-a-Bus or Ring'n'Ride).Completed cards should be returned to the following address:
Strathclyde Partnership for Transport, Bus Operations, Consort House, 12 West George Street, Glasgow, G2 1HN.
Alternatively, email bus@spt.co.uk
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Journey Planner
Services may be altered during public holidays. Please check the Traveline Scotland site.
