Moray’s MSP believes that some unpopular changes to the region’s bus services could be reversed following a massive public outcry.
Richard Lochhead has been swamped with complaints from furious residents about Stagecoach’s plans to scrap several routes.
Pensioners at Elgin’s Larch Court sheltered housing complex and families at the Kinloss Army Barracks have voiced fears the changes will leave them isolated.
Villagers in Findhorn and Kinloss also say that axing the 36 service will prevent them from reaching their medical centre in Forres.
Mr Lochhead has now sat down with the managing director of Stagecoach’s north division, Mark Whitelocks, to discuss with him the negative response to the firm’s proposals.
The SNP politician asked Mr Whitelocks to halt the plans, which he said could leave scores of his constituents “stranded”.
Yesterday, Mr Lochhead revealed he had been given fresh hope that services affecting Kinloss and Findhorn could yet be preserved.
He said: “In recent weeks I’ve been inundated with e-mails and letters from constituents who will be affected by Stagecoach’s proposals to withdraw local bus services.
“I made it clear to the managing director that I absolutely share the concerns of my constituents, and pressed him to look at every possible option before cutting these vital services.
“Mr Whitelocks indicated that he was now actively exploring an option to ensure Findhorn and Kinloss continue to benefit from a reasonable service, which is welcome.”
Mr Lochhead said that further details on the possible continuation of busses to and from the coastal communities would be forthcoming this week.
But he was less optimistic about the future of services in and around Elgin.
He will discuss with Moray Council the idea of the local authority subsidising the routes in question, which mainly affect the Bishopmill area.
Council officers previously dismissed that notion during a meeting of the economic development committee earlier this month.
Stagecoach has blamed the controversial cuts on “a challenging economic environment”.
A spokeswoman said: “We understand that some changes may be unwelcome. However, no change is not an option.
“Our proposals ensure the vast majority of locations and customers we currently serve will continue to be served.”
