An Angus MSP has called for a public meeting after Stagecoach announced a raft of changes to its bus services operating between Carnoustie and Dundee. From September 28 the operator plans to withdraw its 74A and 74C services connecting Ethiebeaton Park and Monifieth to Ninewells Hospital. These will instead be replaced by the existing 73 and 74 services which will run to a new timetable.
According to Stagecoach, the changes will mean four buses will operate per hour between Carnoustie and Dundee during the day. However, the 74 will only operate between Carnoustie and Monifieth. Some locals have raised concerns about the proposed changes and the impact they could have on access to some amenities. Lloyd Melville, SNP MSP for Angus South, has revealed he is seeking a public meeting with Stagecoach.
He told The Courier: “These changes are hugely concerning and the fact they have been announced with no consultation will further damage trust between local people and Stagecoach. “Having used the buses past Ashludie and Monifieth Medical Centre on numerous occasions, I know how vital these links are, particularly for older residents. “This and further changes affecting Muirdrum and Carnoustie are causing worry in our community, and that is why I am seeking a public meeting where Stagecoach can hear the strength of feeling from local residents.
“Stagecoach should urgently rethink these changes and keep our communities connected.” Stagecoach has said the changes will “make it easier for people to travel across Angus” and would “create a simpler, more connected and more reliable bus network”.
The operator added: “Customers will benefit from more frequent journeys on key routes, improved connections between services and a simpler network linking communities across Angus with Dundee.”
Passengers using the 74 service have been told they will be able to connect with the 72, 73 and X7 services at Carnoustie High Street, Monifieth High Street and Ethiebeaton Park.
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