New operators confirmed for evening bus route

A LOCKERBIE transport company has stepped in to ensure an evening bus services between Carlisle and Dumfries continues to run.

A SWestrans meeting was yesterday held at the Council Hall in Dumfries to discuss bus operations in the region.

Amongst them was the 79 service which links Carlisle to Dumfries.

Following the meeting, Annandale South councillor Sean Marshall confirmed yesterday afternoon that Houston’s Coaches would be stepping in to run the evening subsidised routes on the 79 service between Dumfries and Carlisle.

It comes after Stagecoach informed the council it would be axing services in the region.

Meanwhile, it was also yesterday again confirmed that all home-to-school bus services will operate from the start of the new school term in August.

Cllr Stephen Thompson, leader of Dumfries and Galloway Council, commented: “Reliable, sustainable and efficient public transport is essential for our communities, connecting people for work, education, healthcare and much more. The launch of the new subsidised bus network reflects the shared values of the council and SWestrans and underscores our commitment to supporting the best possible services for all residents.

“The procurement of the subsidised and home-to-school bus networks represents a great deal of work that has resulted in stronger contract arrangements with the operators who provide the backbone of the local bus network in the region. These arrangements have been achieved within the agreed budget, ensuring value for money and sustainability in the local networks.”

The new timetables can be viewed on the council’s website.