Issue - meetings

Discussion facilitated by the Chair of the Bute and Cowal Area Committee

The Chair facilitated a discussion around local strategic transport issues with particular regard to the availability of, and future plans for, public transport.

Discussion took place around the current transport timetable no longer being fit for purpose; the need for flexibility, collaboration and effective communication regarding public transport services; an anticipated future increase in the use of electric vehicles and the resulting need for increased electric vehicle charging points; the need to build an attractive bus service for use by people across the area; the success of the Pingo service and its potential future use in more urban areas; the requirement for the reinstatement of public transport services in rural areas; the requirement for increased funding for public transport services; and issues with the capacity of local school buses.

The Committee requested that their displeasure at the significant amendments made to the public transport timetables at the beginning of the pandemic by West Coast Motors and Council officers, without prior consultation with local Elected Members, be formally recorded.