Bus company refuses to re-route service through Bo'ness

MSP Angus MacDonald has written to Citylink to ask for a meeting about the 909 diversion. He said: “I have taken on board the proposal my constituent has brought forward, and I have contacted the bus operator with his suggestion.”

Bo’ness Councillor Adrian Mahoney expressed concern over the Bo’ness situation and services in general.

He said: “It reminds everyone that Falkirk Council isn’t responsible for transport services, although we do try to subsidise services, and it also highlights the cuts in government grant to the bus sector.

“I hope MSPs reflect on that and actually do something to improve public transport locally. They have tax-raising powers and responsibility for transport in Scotland. They could do something to really improve public transport in Scotland.”

Councillor Sandy Turner said: “I am fully supportive of any scheme which will improve upon the current service provision, which to be honest barely merits being described as a service.”

Transport Scotland confirmed Transport Minister Humza Yousaf received the group’s letter and says it “sympathises” with the community over the “lack of provision”.

A spokeswoman said: “The Scottish Government is committed to continuing to work with local transport authorities and operators to identify ways in which we can improve bus services.

“The majority of bus services in Scotland are operated on a commercial basis, but local authorities can decide to subsidise routes where appropriate.

“It may be helpful to draw on the services of Bus Users Scotland who can assist in engaging with communities and bus operators in local areas via their Your Bus Matters events.”