COUNCILLORS have voiced their concerns after Stagecoach revealed plans to reduce bus services throughout South Ayrshire.

And they plan to open discussions with the bus giant on their controversial proposals.

The bid to cut prime bus routes would mean buses will no longer stop at Culzean Castle.

Services would also be reduced between Troon and Irvine and altered in other locations, such as Ayr, Prestwick and Barassie. 

Councillor Ian Cochrane, portfolio holder for sustainability and the environment, said: “In South Ayrshire, buses are a real lifeline, enabling residents to keep their independence for longer. 

“These proposals would affect people trying to get to health appointments and inhibit others from accessing work and further education.

“There would also be an environmental impact as reducing bus services would mean an increase in car journeys when we should be doing all we can to reduce our carbon footprint and help protect South Ayrshire for future generations.

“I intend to sit down with Stagecoach to discuss their proposals and highlight the need to protect these vital services.”

In a recent report in the Ayr Advertiser Series, we revealed the new proposals are due to commence on Sunday, August 13.

Stagecoach said the timetable changes are being proposed due to a significant change in the demand for bus services.

However, they offered consultation days at the beginning of June across South Ayrshire, to understand the views of the public on the changes.

Tom Bridge, managing director for Stagecoach West Scotland, said: “We have seen some big changes in our customers travel patterns in the last two years because of things like internet shopping, working from home and traffic congestion in our towns and cities.

“We have to adapt to these changes and that is why we are consulting on these proposals.

“We want our customers and other local stakeholders to help us shape a network of services in South and East Ayrshire that best serves the current and future needs of local workers, students, job seekers, retired people and visitors.”