Decision Maker: Marr Area Committee

Outcome: Grant

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: November 5, 2024

Purpose: The report seeks comments on draft updated passenger transport policies to take effect from 2025. These include policies on public transport, home-to-school transport and adult social work transport. Area Committee comments will be shared with the Infrastructure Services Committee, Education & Children Services Committee and/or Integration Joint Board for their consideration when they are asked to approve the policies.

Content: To provide the following comments:   1.     To welcome the proposed policies regarding: a.     Operators providing bike carrying facilities on bus services b.     Operation of accessible vehicles suitable for passengers with disabilities c.     Fare capping d.     Provision of demand responsive transport.   2.     Queried options for carrying passengers on vacant seats on school bus services and indicated more use of Council bus services as a service for the public would be welcome.   3.     To oppose the proposed policy on Aberdeen Rapid Transit as the scheme was considered to be too expensive and not to benefit Marr’s communities.   4.     Appealed for more reliable bus stock on the Deeside Corridor.   5.     Raised concerns about the lack of public transport in rural areas, along with its unreliability and expense, and the impact of this on communities and the rural economy, along with equalities impacts on groups including young people, older people and disabled people. Proper infrastructure that fitted rural communities was required rather that urban solutions.