The future of local bus services which link Jedburgh and Kelso to Edinburgh has been put under threat as it emerges Midlothian Council is reviewing its subsidy provided to the service.
The number 51 and 52 service, run by Borders Buses, link up Edinburgh with Jedburgh and Kelso respectively. The service is run on behalf of Scottish Borders Council, but Midlothian Council provide a contribution as the service passes through the council area.
However, Midlothian Council are now reviewing all non-statutory funding including bus services and community transport, in anticipation of further budget cuts from the Scottish Government. A public consultation on this closes on 14th December.
John Lamont was contacted by a constituent from Oxton who was concerned about the possible withdrawal of the service. The MP is now calling on Midlothian and Scottish Borders Council to do all they can to retain this service.
Commenting, John Lamont MP said: “Buses are a vital service for many residents in the Borders. It is therefore very concerning that the 51 and 52 services may be put at risk by Midlothian Council’s review.
“I would urge residents who use this service to respond to the Council’s consultation, but I hope Scottish Borders and Midlothian Councils can work together to do everything they can to retain these services.
“Unfortunately these reviews are being carried out across Scotland because councils are bracing themselves for further cuts from the Scottish Government. Even though the Scottish Government has more money to spend next year, they are expected to continue to slash local authority budgets. It is inevitable that council funded services, like buses, are going to suffer because of the SNP’s austerity.”