An MP has branded a controversial fleet of buses “unfit” for commuters across the north-east coast.
Banff and Buchan politician, Eilidh Whiteford, hit out at Stagecoach’s Buchan Xpress coaches, following a string of complaints from local residents.
The £5.5million fleet was rolled out last year as a new means of travel between towns in Buchan and Aberdeen.
But, within weeks of the launch, local councillors heard from disabled constituents who were finding it difficult to climb on board.
Peterhead SNP member Jim Ingram led a call for the 17 vehicles to be made more user-friendly.
But Mrs Whiteford yesterday said she had received “dozens” of complaints from constituents, having met with locals and representatives from Stagecoach last week.
The SNP MP claimed that passengers with mobility impairments, less agility and those travelling with small children had been worst affected.
Mrs Whiteford added: “It’s quite clear that Stagecoach have made a mistake in choosing this particular model.
“While it may meet the statutory requirements, I continue to receive complaints from bus users.
“Given the number of older people, disabled passengers and parents of babies relying on the buses, it’s important our public transport is accessible to all parts of the community.
“In terms of the legislation, I will be seeking a debate on bus accessibility at the earliest possible opportunity.
“I will also continue to maintain pressure on the company to come up with a solution to this problem. Our public transport needs to be fit for purpose.”
However, last night, a spokeswoman for Stagecoach North Scotland responded that the accessibility issues were being addressed.
She added: “Our senior management met with various constituents from the Buchan area on Friday, May 20 to show the first modifications made to our fleet of Buchan Xpress coaches.
“Our first priority in running any public transport service is safety and the new state-of-the-art coaches are amongst the safest on the road.
“We also take steps to ensure our vehicles are accessible for the range of customers who choose to travel with us.
“The new vehicles are fully compliant with the coach standards outlined in the Public Service Vehicles Accessibility Regulations 2000 and th also include several improvements on the previous vehicles on the route.”
