'Shambolic' Edinburgh bus stop removal trial delay labelled a 'farce'

The further delay of a trial scheme to remove bus stops and speed up journey times has been blasted as “shambolic” and a “farce”.

Plans had been put forward by transport and environment convener Lesley Macinnes for the scheme - which would have seen 26 bus stops removed from the busy cross-city centre No 44 route between Balerno and Wallyford - initially for approval in February.

However the scheme was pulled last minute by the administration in order to consult on the impacts such a scheme would have on accessibility.

It was due to be debated again next week, but Cllr Macinnes confirmed the item would be pulled during the council’s full council meeting on Thursday.

The Evening News understands pressure from the Labour group for more community consultation led to the decision to delay the report again.

The move was labelled shambolic by Conservative transport spokesman Nick Cook.

He said: “The Council’s handling of the bus stop review is nothing short of shambolic.

“Having published the report as part of the last Transport Committee, it was pulled at the last second, avoiding the SNP/Labour adminstration having to democratically debate its shortcomings as highlighted by opposition councillors.

“While better public engagement is undoubtedly needed, this further delay continues to fly in the face of democratic processes. Both councillors and the public need certainty around what happens next.”

Liberal Democrat transport spokesman labelled the delay a “farce” and questioned whether the public would have confidence in the trial.

He said: “This whole project has descended into a farce. The Transport Convener was initially happy for the closure pilot to come forward for approval in February. She has now pulled the proposals, not once but on two separate occasions.

“There was already significant concern about the loss of certain bus stops. Why should passengers have any confidence in this process when the administration is now so clearly lacking confidence in its own approach?”

Labour councillor Scott Arthur said the delay would allow for further consultation.

He said: “The Labour Group received a briefing on bus stop rationalisation on Monday and we could not be sure it met the needs of residents in the City, or that it would encourage more people to use the bus.

“We were particularly concerned about the potential impact on vulnerable people who rely on bus services and the lack of consultation.

“We would prefer a more bottom-up and holistic approach where community groups are at the very heart of how the service is improved.”

A council spokesman said: “It’s essential that we take the needs of all residents into account when making changes such as these, and that we involve communities and relevant groups as we plan their implementation.

“Following extensive consultation with those concerned we’re going to take a little more time to explore the next steps for the proposed trial, before bringing a report to the Transport and Environment Committee. For discussion and decision on whether to go ahead with this evidence-gathering pilot project. ”