Buses running between Inverness and Caithness have been permanently replaced by Stagecoach following widespread criticism about the “unsuitable” vehicles used for the past two years.
The travel operator has confirmed new Volvo B13 single decker buses which took over the X99 route from the unpopular Interdeck vehicles in March will remain in place for the foreseeable future.
The buses used before March had only three seats downstairs and passengers with mobility issues found it difficult to get upstairs and to use the toilet.
Campaigners in Caithness and Sutherland had been fighting for a change since October 2018 and Stagecoach admitted in an email to local MSP Gail Ross that the backlash had factored in the decision.
Councillor Struan Mackie said the move had been a “long time coming”.
He said: “The previous fleet, as far as I’m concerned, just weren’t fit for purpose.
“I think unfortunately it was a decision that actually cost usership.
“For people who were less mobile than others it was too daunting a prospect, and they were actually not using the bus as much as they previously had done.
“For those using the bus it wasn’t a particularly nice experience.
“The new fleet that has been brought in are a significant improvement.”
The announcement was made as services begin to return to normal following the lockdown, which resulted in passenger numbers plunging by more than 80%.
