Bus update from leader

DUMFRIES and Galloway Council's new leader today issued a statement on bus provision locally. Cllr Stephen Thompson, said: "I understand people living in Dumfries and Galloway’s concern regarding the bus provision across the region, and I want to reassure everyone that your council, in close partnership with SWestrans, is working hard to secure the best possible outcomes for our communities. “We are currently engaged in a complex but crucial live tender process to re-procure both home-to-school transport and the subsidised local bus network. This is a significant undertaking, designed to provide stability for operators and, most importantly, reliable, long-term connections for our residents from August 2025. “Although the details of the tender procedure remain confidential at this sensitive stage to protect the integrity of the process, I want to be absolutely clear that we are prioritising the continuation of these essential services. We are committed to ensuring all home-to-school transport is in place for the new academic year, and our council and SWestrans are committed to providing a well-connected local bus network." Mr Thompson added: “I appreciate everyone’s patience as we navigate these intricate discussions.' And he revealed there will be a 'comprehensive update' on the situation on released on Monday morning.