The RELBUS committee met last week to discuss the implications of First withdrawing its bus services from the county. The meeting was attended by Iain Gray MSP and by Gavin Booth of Bus Users Scotland. The meeting heard that as yet there are no definite proposals for replacement services but it is understood that discussions are ongoing between the council and possible operators of both scheduled services and school buses. The meeting’s main concern was with the uncertainty on the part of users as to whether or not they will have a service after August 14th.
Councillor Michael Veitch, East Lothian Council Transport spokesperson gave RELBUS this reassurance after the meeting:
”The loss of any bus services in the region is always of concern, and especially in this case, the threat to the depots. That said, we are in a strong position because of the presence of several high quality bus operators in East Lothian, and I am very optimistic that the void left by First will be filled. Indeed, I am hopeful that the affected communities may end up with a significantly improved service.”
Iain Gray MSP commented after the meeting:
“I was able to report to RELBUS that I have spoken on a number of occasions to East Lothian Council and to Lothian Buses, to encourage discussions re replacing the services from which First are withdrawing. I have also spoken to First to encourage them to give maximum cooperation to any operator who might wish to take these routes over, and have received assurances that they will do so. I have also made clear to all concerned that the depots at Musselburgh and North Berwick and the staff facing redundancy should be part of any discussions about an alternative provider. I know that talks have been taking place, and like Cllr Veitch, I am optimistic that a solution can be found, and that it may even lead to an improvement in services for the communities affected.”