Stagecoach responds to criticism over X74 bus service

The operator has faced criticism over the reliability of its X74 service, which serves areas including Hamilton and Lesmahagow.

South Scotland Green MSP Laura Moodie has demanded action against Stagecoach after monitoring by Bus Users UK reportedly found fewer than half of services were running on time.

The monitoring was carried out during August and September and also raised concerns over communication with passengers about cancellations and customer service standards.

Moodie raised the findings during a Scottish Parliament debate on strengthening Scotland's bus network on Thursday, November 5.

She said: “Fewer than half of X74 buses running on time is an absolute disgrace.

“People across South Scotland are being completely let down by a company that's supposed to provide a vital public service.

“For many people, the X74 is their only realistic way of getting to work and college, attend hospital appointments or visit family.

“When buses don't turn up, people are left stranded, sometimes for hours.”

The MSP has also called for formal regulatory scrutiny of the operator's performance, including possible financial penalties.

Scottish Green Party MSP Laura Moodie at the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh. (Image: Jane Barlow)

She added: “Stagecoach has failed X74 passengers for too long.

“It should be stripped of the service and face real punishment for letting our communities down.”

Stagecoach has now responded to the criticism, setting out factors it believes affected the service during the monitoring period and outlining steps it has taken to improve the route.

A Stagecoach spokesperson said: “We’re committed to improving the X74 and have been taking practical steps to enhance the service for customers.

“Roadworks in and around Dumfries have been a significant factor in delays during the monitoring period.

“While we continue to focus on the reliability of our operations, the impact of roadworks and traffic management arrangements is outside our direct control.

“We have been working closely with local authorities to secure changes that help minimise disruption to bus services.”

The company also highlighted changes made to the vehicles operating the route.

(Image: Newsquest)

The spokesperson continued: “We have also upgraded the X74 to a full double-deck coach operation over the past six weeks, increasing comfort, capacity and accessibility for customers.”

Stagecoach and Moodie are expected to meet later this month to discuss the service and further improvements.

The operator said: “We look forward to meeting Ms Moodie later this month to discuss the improvements made, our plans for further enhancements and the importance of working together to ensure roadworks and the allocation of road space properly take account of bus users.”