Stagecoach to cut bus services in north Scotland

Bus operator Stagecoach is to cut services as it launches a review of its north Scotland operations.

The company said it has been unable to cover the cost of running its local network, with reduced passenger demand and higher costs among the reasons blamed.

From August, a number of services will be stopped in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire, with changes made to others.

Other options being considered include the potential closure of its Stonehaven and Insch depots. A consultation is under way. The Unite union said meetings were planned.

Stagecoach said the current situation was no longer sustainable.

The company said it had met staff and trade unions and was consulting with workers.

There will also be discussions with local authorities in Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire and Moray.

Services being withdrawn in Aberdeen include the 21A/22A/22B Cove and Torry to Lochside Academy routes.

Stagecoach North Scotland managing director David Beaton said: "We are a significant local employer and we understand the importance of bus services for the local community. We also know that any change can be unsettling for our people.

"That's why we are working closely with both the trade union to protect as many jobs and as much of the local bus services as possible.

"We're carrying out a consultation and will be working closely with staff during this process, however the reality is that we simply cannot sustain the current operation."

Stagecoach said customers could find details of the upcoming changes, and proposed timetables, on its website.

The Unite union, which represents dozens of Stagecoach workers, said the announcement had come as a shock.

"Unite are determined to engage with Stagecoach and our members to secure employment," regional officer Vic Fraser told BBC Scotland News.

"We are at a very early stage, and there are meetings planned for next week. We will have a better understanding then of what the proposals are and what steps can be taken to avoid any compulsory redundancies.

"We need to look at the rationale for the decisions that are being made, to see if they are justified, and then how we best accommodate and secure continued employment for our members."