Ambitious plans for a council-run bus service took a significant step forward yesterday after councillors unanimously agreed to move the scheme forward.
The one-time Grampian Buses ceased operations in 1989 after being bought over by First Bus following deregulation laws introduced by Margaret Thatcher.
Former council leader Callum McCaig, now MP for Aberdeen South, first proposed the idea during the last council administration, but it was dismissed at the time.
However, members across the political divide united yesterday to support Labour transport spokesman Ross Grant’s motion to “explore all options” for reviving the service.
The move is in response to anger over the almost total lack of services to Kingswells.
Prior to the debate, the idea was welcomed by bus drivers union Unite.
It’s understood that any future scheme will be based on Edinburgh’s Lothian buses model and could utilise Aberdeen’s hydrogen vehicles.
Last night council leader, Jenny Laing, said the buses would aim to compete directly with current providers in the Granite City.
She added: “Aberdeen’s bus commuters have been let down badly by the private bus operators and it has gradually got worse since Grampian Buses was disbanded in the late 1980s.
“A bill granting local authorities the power to set up council-run bus services is due to go before MSPs in Holyrood. Assuming it passes, Aberdeen will be the first to sign up.
“In fact, we are making it a central manifesto commitment going into May’s local council elections.
“Obviously, this is a massive undertaking and there will be various ways we can do it.
“What’s important is that the people of Aberdeen have a comprehensive, reliable and affordable bus service they can count on to take them around the city.
“It’s important for our citizens and for businesses looking to invest in Aberdeen.”
