Large areas of Scotland are facing the risk of being “cut off” due to a significant decline in bus services across the country. Research conducted by the Labour party revealed that the total number of registered bus routes has decreased by a staggering 44% since 2006, resulting in the loss of over 1,400 routes. In just the past year alone, 190 bus routes were cut, marking a 10% drop in services.
Challenges Faced by Local Councils
Local councils are struggling to bring bus routes back under public control amidst rising passenger dissatisfaction. Many communities, particularly in rural areas, are increasingly finding themselves without adequate transport options, affecting people’s ability to access work, healthcare, and essential services.
The decline of bus routes is partly due to Scotland’s privatized bus system, which was set in place during the 1980s under Margaret Thatcher’s Conservative government. This privatization has led to a fragmented network, with many services becoming less reliable and more expensive.
Government Response and Delay in Franchising Powers
In 2019, the Scottish Parliament passed legislation giving local authorities the power to establish bus franchises, allowing them to take greater control of bus services. However, the Scottish Government has delayed the implementation of the franchising model, with regulations and guidance only expected to be introduced in 2025. This delay has left many councils and passengers frustrated, as the issue continues to worsen.
Scottish Labour has criticized the Scottish Government for not acting sooner to address the issue, pointing to the government’s failure to restore the bus services that are critical to local communities. The party also criticized the decision to cut bus funding in the 2025-26 budget, particularly the scrapping of a £500 million pledge to invest in bus infrastructure.
Call for Action
The Poverty Alliance has urged the Scottish Government to support councils in bringing buses back under local control to ensure reliable and affordable services. Claire Baker, transport spokesperson for Scottish Labour, emphasized the social, economic, and environmental consequences of the declining bus network. “Lifeline bus routes in Scotland are disappearing by the day on the SNP’s watch,” she said, stressing the urgency for change.
Meanwhile, a Scottish Government spokesperson acknowledged the importance of local bus services, highlighting their commitment to increasing funding for bus services and improving infrastructure. They also mentioned a new bus infrastructure fund aimed at making buses more attractive and reducing journey times.
The Case of Edinburgh
Edinburgh stands as the only city in Scotland where the local bus fleet remains publicly owned. The city’s public bus service is often cited as one of the best in the country. Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT) has announced plans to pursue a similar model across Greater Glasgow, potentially replacing the current deregulated system with a franchise model similar to those used in London and Manchester.
