Gordon MP urges Stagecoach to extend consultation

Gordon MP Richard Thomson has asked Stagecoach to extend the consultation period on changes to local bus services to allow the public more time to respond.

The move comes after Mr Thomson was contacted by concerned bus users contacted him regarding proposed changes to local services and highlighted that the consultation was only publicised last Friday (June 30) and closes in two days’ time on Thursday, July 6.

Commenting, Richard Thomson MP said: “There are a range of changes being proposed by Stagecoach, some of which are to improve punctuality of services which I am sure will be welcomed, but other changes are of a more significant nature and potentially have a big impact on bus users or those who would like to use public transport.

“Allowing only five working days for people to get a response in, let alone allowing for people to become aware that there is in fact a consultation in the first place is not treating the public with respect.

“I appreciate that Stagecoach will wish to implement changes quickly, particularly where these lead to improved service standards, but the public and also community bodies need a reasonable timeframe in which to get their responses in.

"I have therefore written to Stagecoach asking that they consider an extension to their consultation.”

Full details of the proposed changes, including draft timetables can be found here

Feedback can be submitted via email to bluebird.consultations@stagecoach.com before Thursday 6 July as things stand.

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