Police have been contacted amidst concerns from Lochside Academy bus drivers about anti-social behaviour from pupils.
Stagecoach stepped in to save the buses after funding was removed by Aberdeen City Council during the recent budget cuts.
Parents hit out at the decision stating it was not safe for their children to walk along busy roads from Cove, Torry and Kincorth to the school.
The 21A, 22A and 22B buses will resume on a commercial basis after the Easter holidays – but may not be able to remain in the “long term” if anti-social behaviour and vandalism continue.
‘Drivers are suffering from abuse’
A bus driver, who did not wish to be named, shared theses incidents are having a negative impact on drivers’ wellbeing – with many saying they no longer want to cover the school route.
He said: “Drivers face abuse from pupils on a day-to-day basis. It’s not all the children but a good majority that I have personally experienced and other drivers. It’s detrimental to us.
“Pupils are jumping around and swinging around on the bars which is putting drivers and other passengers at risk. If the driver has to brake suddenly it could lead to serious injury.”
He also shared that pupils from S1 to S6 are coming onboard and verbally abusing, threatening and swearing at staff on a regular basis.
“Drivers are suffering, they’re breaking down over this,” he added.
Rise in Lochside bus incidents
When the return of the buses was announced, Stagecoach confirmed that some of its vehicles had suffered “costly damage” due to a small number of pupils.
The bus company said there had been an “unfortunate increase” in incidents of anti-social behaviour and vandalism.
Daniel Laird, commercial director for Stagecoach Bluebird, said: “We recognise the value of these school bus services to the local community, as well as the negative impact that would be experienced if they were to be withdrawn.
“We are pleased that we have been able to find a way to continue operating the services, but we need the support of the local community in order to make sure they are sustainable in the long term.
“In particular, we would ask parents to ensure their young people have their under 22 bus pass and are informed of the importance of safe behaviour when travelling on the bus.”
Working with Lochside Academy pupils
Aberdeen City Council has confirmed the school is aware of the issues and is working to “prevent further incidents”.
A spokeswoman said: “We have been working alongside the school, Police Scotland, and Stagecoach Bluebird to manage the incidents which have occurred and to engage with the young people at Lochside Academy to prevent further incidents.
“The pupils have been reminded that damage to property goes against the school values of respect.”
Some pupils travelling to Lochside Academy from Kincorth rely on First Bus services to get to school.
The bus company also said it had also received reports of anti-social behaviour on these routes.
A First Bus spokesman said: “We have had a small number of incidents with anti-social behaviour on our services from Kincorth, but we are working closely with the school to try and put an end to this.”
Conversation