Two new subsided bus services hit the road this morning to make sure no community is cut off.
West Lothian Council proposals to maintain services for Blackridge and Greenrigg when changes to McGill’s commercial bus network come into effect on Monday.
Service 21 will now operate Blackridge to Livingston Centre via Armadale, Bathgate, Blackburn, Seafield & Kirkton Campus.
Service 23 will now operate Shotts to Broxburn via Greenrigg, Heartlands, Whitburn, Blackburn, Seafield, Livingston Village, St John’s Hospital, Livingston Centre, Craigshill, Pumpherston & Uphall.
Councillor Stuart Borrowman was pleased to announce the 21 came on time on Monday morning in Blackridge.
He said on Facebook: "I’m pleased to say the first bus (0729) ex-Blackridge on the new service to Livingston via Armadale and Bathgate duly appeared and on time."
Information at bus stops is in the process of being updated, but passengers are advised to check the McGill’s website at https://www.mcgillsscotlandeast.co.uk/ for latest timetable information.
Executive councillor for the environment and sustainability Tom Conn said: “It’s vital we made sure that Greenrigg and Blackridge were not left without bus services after McGill’s changes to their commercial bus network from 8 May.
“Thank to the Traffic Commissioner for approving these services extensions in a prompt fashion, which prioritises our limited funding for local residents that would otherwise have no travel choices.
“The ongoing challenges experienced across Scotland’s commercial bus industry in terms of costs and staffing is a major issue for many West Lothian residents and communities across Scotland.
“The huge pressure on council budgets means it is not possible for us to fund direct replacements for the cancelled commercial services, and we do not receive any additional or dedicated funding from the Scottish Government for bus services.”
These changes will see the largest commercial network change by an operator in a number of years and will impact journey options for passengers. A total of 80% of bus services in West Lothian are commercial services, and West Lothian Council have no influence or authority over their commercial operation.
For more details on how the commercial bus network operates, please visit https://www.westlothian.gov.uk/local-bus
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