Andrew has written to both Stagecoach and the Aberdeenshire Council, calling for more to be done to protect existing bus services in rural areas and for serious consideration to be given to reintroducing rural services covering settlements along Deeside and Donside such as Aboyne, Torphins, Tarland, and Alford.
In the letters he highlights that the cost of living crisis has made travelling further afield essential for many individuals in search of employment opportunities, he adds that the current state of bus services in rural areas makes this increasingly difficult. Covering one of the most rural constituencies in the UK Andrew stressed that a lack of reliable and regular bus services has a negative impact on rural communities.
He believes that connecting rural settlements is more important now than ever, and has asked that Stagecoach and the local council give serious consideration to reintroducing the rural services mentioned in the letter. He states that it would greatly improve the lives of individuals who rely on public transport for their daily needs, and will ensure that the local community remains connected, despite the challenges posed by the cost of living crisis.
Andrew said:
"I understand that maintaining and reintroducing these services may present some challenges, but I am confident that with cooperation between Stagecoach and the local council, we can find a solution that works for everyone."
He is hoping for a positive response from both Stagecoach and Aberdeenshire Council, and hopes that this matter will be addressed promptly to ensure the well-being and connectivity of local communities within the constituency.
