Issue - meetings

West Coast Motors

Neil Stewart advised that the under 22’s free bus scheme is performing well but is causing capacity issues at the end of the school day. Mr Stewart also advised that an adjustment to mileage on Thursdays and Fridays has allowed for a Saturday morning bus arriving from Strachur to Dunoon.

Neil highlighted that they are carrying 90% compared to same period in 2019; that over 60s concessions have gone from 50.7% in 2019 to 36% and that under 22s have increased by 17% compared to when the same age group had to pay for travel.

Discussion took place in relation to the possibility of a bus going into Hunters Quay ferry terminal. Neil highlighted that this is private land and that the queuing area would prevent the bus from turning and a risk assessment would need to be undertaken.

Neil advised that in relation to a request at the last meeting for a later bus after 11pm towards Kilmun and Ardentinny that historical ticket sale data illustrated that it was a poorly used and as such was withdrawn after a year.

Outcome

The Forum noted the update from West Coast Motors.

Strathclyde Passenger Transport (SPT)

Alan Comrie advised that there was no change to services, supported bus service or concessions and that within Cowal there were no changes other than School times. Discussion took place on the reimbursement of Road Equivalent Tariff Subsidies to Calmac, Western Ferries and ScotRail and the possible raise in fares.  Mr Comrie advised that the next meeting to discuss fares would take place in September and he would update the Forum on the outcome. 

Outcome

The Forum noted the Strathclyde Passenger Transport Update.