Scores of angry residents handed a petition to transport bosses yesterday, protesting at the proposed scrapping of “vital” bus services to an Aberdeen suburb.
First Bus is planning to remove the X40 and 11 services from Kingswells by the end of the year.
And despite the company’s claims to be consulting with the public before making the amendments, their actions have sparked anger in the community with more than 2,500 signatures testifying to the depth of feeling.
Yesterday, protestors took the threatened service to the depot to hand over the petition.
One of their number, Angela Beattie said: “What they don’t seem to understand is that this is a public service widely used by the community.
“It’s the only access some have to the city.”
Kingswells councillor Steve Delaney has submitted a motion to today’s full council meeting, calling on the local authority to try and find a solution.
He added: “Following years of running down the Kingswells service by reducing its frequency and failing to address timekeeping on the route, First are now looking to leave a whole community without public transport.
“It’s an absolute disgrace from a company founded in this city.
“However, I must say I’ve been impressed with the way the community has united in opposition to First’s intention to withdraw our bus service and the dedication and determination of local people to oppose this”.
First Aberdeen operations manager, David Adam, said: “We are disappointed at having to announce the withdrawal of these services and acknowledge the strength of feeling.
“We have listened intently to the views expressed in our meeting with residents and will take note of the comments in the petition.
“Those who have signed the petition can be assured we are still in consultation over these plans with the council, local stakeholders and members of the local community, and we will continue that dialogue.”