Bus changes talks

SOUTH Scotland MSP Craig Hoy has met with Dumfries and Galloway Council officials for urgent talks on the potential loss of key bus routes across the area. He raised local concerns about the future of rural bus and school services relied on by many residents after Stagecoach signalled it plans to pull out of the region after failing to agree to new tender terms. After the meeting Mr Hoy said: “We live in a large rural area and local bus services must be protected. While other operators may take on some services which are at risk, I am deeply disappointed that Stagecoach appears to be abandoning the area after years of public funding to support their operations.” And he has launched a survey-based campaign to learn directly from residents about how they use local bus services and assess what impact the potential changes may have. He explained: “I want to hear directly from local people who use and need lifeline bus services. My local campaign will help build a clear picture of what services matter most to residents across Dumfriesshire."