14 March 2008
Intervention saves bus service
A local bus service in South Lanarkshire has been saved following intervention by SPT.
Henderson Travel announced its intention to withdraw the evening and Sunday service between Hamilton and East Kilbride (Service 13) from 17 March.
However, SPT members have agreed to fund the service for a further 12 weeks at a cost of just under £5,000.
Prices will also be sought for the long-term operation of the route.
The SPT-funded service will begin on 18 March and will continue to be operated by Henderson Travel.
The previous timetable remains unchanged.
SPT’s Director of Bus Operations, Eric Stewart, said: “Under current rules, commercial operators are free to withdraw services at any time, even if it leaves people without a bus link.
“SPT funds socially necessary bus services to try to ensure nobody is left without access to public transport.
"This can mean that we end up paying a commercial operator to continue a service they have just withdrawn.”
“We’re pleased to be able to fund these evening and Sunday services as they are very important to the local community."
Mr Stewart said it was not possible for SPT to fund every under-threat service.
However, he added: "We are working with our bus industry and local authority partners to come up with solutions to help provide Strathclyde with a first-class bus system.”
ends