Following the recent reprocurement of the subsidised bus network and the award of 45 new contracts to local operators, several enhancements have now been introduced to support school pupils and communities.
Among the changes is the splitting of previously merged Dumfries town services. Houston’s Coaches have now separated the D1/D2 and D10/D12 back into four separate routes: D1, D2, D10, D12. Updated timetables are available on the council’s website at https://dumfriesandgalloway.gov.uk/timetables.
Other recent improvements include:
- A new 8.25am service from Cargenbridge to support secondary pupils travelling to school.
- A second dedicated school transport service from Kirkconnel and Kelloholm to Sanquhar Academy to address timing issues on the commercial 246 route, which some pupils had been using.
In addition, a trial second bus has been introduced on the 246 route at school times to support pupils travelling to Wallace Hall Academy, running Monday to Friday until the October school holidays.
There is a feedback form on the council website to capture all suggestions in one place and also a comprehensive bus network Q and A, which is regularly updated.
Dumfries and Galloway Council Leader, Cllr Stephen Thompson, said:
“We’re listening carefully to the feedback on recent changes to the bus network, especially from parents and carers. The council remains committed to meeting our statutory obligation to provide safe and reliable home-to-school transport for entitled pupils. We also recognise that many young people rely on public buses to get to school.
“Improving the network is an ongoing priority and some of the solutions we have put in place are short-term while we work closely with operators to find longer-term improvements. We’re encouraging everyone to check the updated Q and A and to complete the feedback form to help shape future improvements.”
Chair of SWestrans Cllr John Campbell said:
“We're encouraged by the progress made so far and recognise the value of ongoing dialogue with communities. SWestrans will continue to work with partners to support practical changes that make a difference locally, and we'd urge people to use the feedback form to help us understand local needs and priorities as we plan ahead.”
To see the latest updates, visit: Bus Network Changes – Your Questions Answered | Dumfries and Galloway Council.
To provide your feedback, please complete this form: Dumfries and Galloway Bus Network Feedback Form.