Concerns over future of Stagecoach bus depots

Potential local closures could result in 130 job losses

- STUART GILLESPIE

Around 130 jobs are under threat at Stagecoach West Scotland.

The bus operator's existing contracts for school transport and council subsidised routes across Dumfries and Galloway are due to expire in a few months.

But the firm is now considering its future in the region as it believes the deals will not be renewed following concerns about a new liability clause.

That could see depots in Dumfries and Stranraer closed, which South Scotland Labour MSP Colin Smyth claims would result in up to 130 jobs being lost.

He said: "If Stagecoach go ahead with their threat to withdraw from the region, this would be devastating news for the workforce - my thoughts are with every employee now facing uncertainty about their future.

"Stagecoach's possible exit would be a hammer blow to public transport in our region and utterly decimate local bus services.

"Having squeezed out competition over the years, Stagecoach know full well this would leave many communities cut off and pupils unable to get to school after the summer.

"To abandon local jobs and lifeline services while clinging onto the profitable routes from afar would be the height of corporate irresponsibility.