Pilot scheme for Highland Council-run buses to launch in January alongside a review of school transport
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Highland Council has confirmed that its in-house bus company project is to launch on January 4 – potentially providing relief for communities hit by unreliable public transport.
The council has invested in 12 buses, including six double deckers, to deliver passenger and school transport services at a lower cost than commercial contractors – something that has been a problem for years.
The Redesign Board – set-up to improve council services – was told that a project team has been established with three officers and a bus operations supervisor while the pilot bus services have been approved by the Traffic Commissioner.
Interviews for drivers are ongoing while approval has been granted for the lease of ground for an operational centre.
The use of electric buses was not fully explored but officers intend to submit a bid next spring to Transport Scotland’s Scottish Zero Emission Bus Challenge Fund.
Alongside the pilot programme, the council is to carry out a review of school transport arrangements, including the procurement of specialist transport management software.
The chairman of the council’s economy and infrastructure committee, Councillor Ken Gowans said: “Our ambitious in-house bus company will mitigate some of the significant cost increases following the recent re-tendering of passenger and school transport contracts. It will also allow us the flexibility for an improved and more inclusive service.
“The new service will be supported by specialist transport management software. This will not only help us streamline the expansion of our bus services, but it will ensure every possible efficiency saving is made.
“It was good to get the update today to confirm real progress is being made and I for one cannot wait to see the new buses out on the routes in January.”
