Issue - meetings

The Forum discussed the submitted update in relation to bus service contracts for the 479 Dunoon to Rothesay West Coast Motors Service.

Murray Rodgers, West Coast Motors, advised the Forum that when the vehicle ferry is off and the bus cannot get over to Bute, they were required to put on an additional bus to pick-up foot passengers. The Forum noted that the new timetables for the 479 and 428 service were now in place and the issue was resolved.

The Forum wished to thank West Coast Motors for the help given to the community during covid-19, particularly in delivering goods from Dunoon to rural locations.

Outcome

The Forum noted the position.

As there was no Officer present from Public Transport there was no further discussion held on this item.

Outcome

The Forum noted the position agreed at item 4(e) above and agreed to continue the item.

Martin Arnold spoke about the service reminding the Forum that West Coast Motors had previously agreed to run the service between Dunoon and Colintraive in circumstances where the ferry did not run.  Martin made a suggestion that as part of the contract renewal process this condition could be specified.

Outcome

The Forum noted the update and agreed that Martin take this forward in due course as part of the contract renewal process.

No further update on this item was provided.

West Coast Motors have been asked to provide cover for this and ensure even if the ferry is off that the last bus to Colintraive from Dunoon will still operate.

Outcome

1. Murray Rogers will take this item forward with Argyll and Bute Council for a workable solution going forward.
2. West Coast Motors will ask City Link to look at addressing the gaps in timetable of the 926 service raised by Cairndow Community Council.

Councillor Good informed the Group that West Coast Motors did not run the 479 Dunoon to Rothesay services three times in one month due to ferry cancellations. It was noted that this impacted on residents of Colintraive who use the service.

Outcome

1. Martin Arnold agreed to raise concerns with West Coast Motors regarding the 479 service and to seek clarification on the use of the bus stop at Clyde Street, shore side.

Other Issues

1. The Chair agreed to write to the West Coast Motors head office in Campbeltown expressing concerns over the lack of representation at the meetings.

2. The Area Committee Manager agreed to circulate to the Group the West Coast Motors Christmas holidays timetable.