A replacement bus service has been launched to keep an Aberdeen community connected to local shops during lockdown.
The number 44 Stagecoach shuttle, which links Countesswells with Kingswells Park and Ride, had been temporarily suspended due to the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic.
But after concerns were raised by residents who rely on the service to shop for essential supplies, developers behind the Countesswells community – which include housebuilders Stewart Milne, Barratt, Chap and Kirkwood – have stepped in to fund a twice-weekly bus service to transport residents directly to the nearest supermarket for essentials.
To ensure the safety of passengers, operator Stagecoach is encouraging social distancing measures on board all buses, including sitting a safe distance from fellow passengers and using contactless payments wherever possible.
Community liaison officer Karen Watt, said: “When we heard the bus route was being suspended we were immediately concerned it might leave some residents, who rely on public transport, stuck with no way to buy food for themselves or their families.
“The new temporary service, which began this week, offers a shuttle bus service to the nearest supermarket.
“It will run twice a week and provides the best flexibility we can while lockdown measures are in place.”
The Countesswells development will eventually comprise of 3,000 homes along with healthcare facilities, local businesses, leisure space, two primary schools and a secondary school.