Three leading Moray Conservatives are warning that communities in Elgin are at risk of losing a lifeline bus service.
The 340 Duffus Heights circular route, which is operated by Deveron Coaches and links communities in north Elgin to the town centre, could cease operating in a matter of weeks following the end of funding provided by developer contributors.
Local Councillor Frank Brown, MSP Jamie Halcro Johnston and Moray MP Douglas Ross have all warned of the potential impact the loss of the service could have on residents.
Councillor Frank Brown (Elgin City North) said: “This service is used predominantly by older people and offers a lifeline to the town, to Dr Grays and the GP practices at Maryhill and Glassgreen.
“The ending of developer obligation funding has prompted Deveron to review the route and to cut the service. There has been no consultation as there is no statutory requirement to consult and Deveron have told council officers who pressed them to continue the provision that they are unable to do so.
“I am alarmed at this development and have asked council officers to review the route in the hope that a business case can be made for keeping the service running.”
Highlands and Islands MSP Jamie Halcro Johnston said: “The loss of this service, and the impact that have on some local residents, was highlighted to me by constituents during my recent street surgeries in Elgin.
“I have written to Deveron Coaches asking them for more information on the service and on what criteria the decision to remove was taken. And I have also sent that letter to Moray Council and asked them to advise me what consideration they undertook before withdrawing support for the service.
“I share Frank Brown’s concern about the impact this could have, particularly on elderly folk, who could be left without a service and feeling isolated in their homes.”
Moray MP Douglas Ross is supporting his colleagues’ effort to save the service. He said: “The loss of bus services is a problem across Moray and this latest decision by Deveron is a real blow to many people who rely on the service. I have been contacted by several concerned residents and will work with Frank and Jamie to see if anything can be done to protect the route.
“It’s not right that local people, particularly older residents, should suffer in this way simply because the developer contributions have ended and I hope we can find a solution which will see this route maintained.”
