28 August 2006
Vandal-hit bus service re-instated
Strathclyde Partnership for Transport has joined forces with Strathclyde Police and bus operator Henderson Travel to re-instate a vandal-hit Glasgow bus service.
The evening Easterhouse to Shettleston Service 310, which is funded by SPT and operated by Henderson, was discontinued on 25 June after being targeted by vandals.
Henderson withdrew the evening service - axing the bus route from 6pm onwards - amid concerns over driver and passenger safety after youths smashed windows, threw missiles at the bus and abused the driver.
However, after a meeting of all parties at SPT’s Glasgow headquarters, the evening service was re-instated on Thursday 27 July, and will now continue as normal with the support of Strathclyde Police who have devised an action plan to deal with the vandals.
John Henderson, of Henderson Travel, said: "We are determined that we are not going to be intimidated by mindless vandals and hooligans. There is now a top-quality CCTV system on the bus and we are delighted with the support we have had from SPT and Strathclyde Police so hopefully the service is back in operation for good.
"The driver does an excellent job and certainly does not deserve to be abused or assaulted. We are doing what we can to continue this service while also ensuring his safety and the safety of passengers."
SPT Chair, Councillor Alistair Watson, added: "I’m delighted that the service is back in operation and we are determined not to let this kind of behaviour deprive people in Easterhouse, Baillieston and Shettleston of a much-needed bus service. This service is the only link between Easterhouse and Baillieston so we will be doing everything we can to ensure it continues.
"All incidents of vandalism, abuse or violence on the route will be reported to Strathclyde Police and those who are caught taking part in this kind of mindless behaviour will be dealt with by the law."
ends