Bus companies in Aberdeen have backed plans to partially pedestrianise a historic street in the city centre.
The local authority voted unanimously in favour of a £4million transformation of Broad Street this week.
The move will involve the creation of a roundabout at the Upperkirkgate as well as a water feature, public lawn and boulevard of trees.
Now First Bus and Stagecoach have both said the plans could boost journey times in the city centre.
A First Aberdeen spokesman said: “We welcomed the opportunity to submit its views on redevelopment of Broad Street and we support any changes which ensure the provision and prioritisation of bus services on this thoroughfare.
“This would have the potential to improve journeys for passengers in a very busy area of the city.”
A spokesman for Stagecoach North Scotland added he “fully supported” the plan: “The road infrastructure in Aberdeen city centre plays a key part in maintaining reliable bus links for people using public transport to go to work, shop, and access education and other services.
“We fully support the proposals to develop the Broad Street area with bus access maintained in the future plans.”
In June the Liberal Democrat group on the council voted against the part pedestrianisation of Broad Street but supported the plans this time round.
Councillor Martin Greig, who represents the Queens Cross, Ashley and Hazlehead ward, said an opportunity had been lost to make the best of Broad Street.
He said: “The Liberal Democrats voted against allowing buses on Broad Street the last time round.
“I think that we have lost the opportunity of turning Broad Street into an attractive visitor friendly plaza type area.
“We are now attempting to make the most of a bad situation.”
But planning chief Ramsay Milne said it would bring huge benefits to the city.
He said: “Aberdeen has to function as a city and our transport system would not benefit from the total closure of Broad Street.
“Under the city centre masterplan traffic in the city centre will come down by 30% and the use of buses will help with this.
“Nevertheless the plans provide a great civic space and will allow the road to be closed for certain events.”
