Anti-bus residents of posh suburb near Glasgow accused of trying to disrupt new route
Bus operator has threatened to pass to police CCTV of obstructions placed in road
Many people might welcome a new bus service to increase their travel options.
But some residents of an up-market street on the edge of Glasgow have deluged the operator with complaints in an attempt to scrap it since their road was added to a route four months ago.
The objections have prompted West Coast Motors (WCM) to hit back, accusing some home owners of trying to disrupt the service amid reports of obstructions being placed on the road to impede buses, which it said threatened public safety.
It is understood these include cars being parked in such a way as to to block buses getting through.
WCM said the addition of Moorfoot Way, in Bearsden in East Dunbartonshire, to its 15 bus route between Glasgow and Milngavie had been overwhelmingly backed by locals, and it was “fully committed” to the new service.
But the firm posted on Facebook: “Regrettably, a very small group of residents on Moorfoot Way are actively trying to have the bus removed from their area, even attempting to disrupt our journeys.”
It has threatened to pass relevant CCTV to Police Scotland and said the service offered “vital independence to residents with limited mobility or those without access to a car”.
Among dozens of passengers who praised the service on Facebook, James Anthony wrote: “[It] will be sad, entitled, out of touch people with too much time (and money) on their hands who will be complaining about the bus as they will stupidly think it devalues their property.”
Lesley Ross wrote: “I am truly embarrassed to read about this completely selfish behaviour by an obvious minority of entitled individuals.
“This is a fantastic service which is a lifeline for many who are unable to drive or indeed walk short distances.”
Mark Pittman wrote: “It’s more likely that a small group of residents hold the misguided view that a bus service lowers the tone of the area, when in reality it enhances it.”
A WCM spokesperson said: “Despite this clear community benefit, a small group of non-bus users on Moorfoot Way has repeatedly contacted us to complain about the service.
“More concerningly, the company has received recurring reports of intentional road obstructions that actively restrict bus access and threaten public safety.”
Richy Graham, WCM’s regional operations manager, said: "Since the service was enhanced in February, we have received strong support from passengers who value the additional travel opportunities and improved connectivity.
“While we respect differing views, we remain committed to providing a reliable service that meets the needs of the many people who rely on it.
"Safety is our absolute priority. Our vehicles are fitted with advanced telematics and CCTV, and our professional drivers are trained to operate considerately in residential areas.
“While we respect differing perspectives, deliberate actions that interfere with a lawful public service are serious.
“If these disruptions continue, relevant CCTV footage will be passed directly to Police Scotland."
John Murray, a resident of the street, said: “We would welcome and encourage WCM’s support to keep Moorfoot Way safe.
“As we have previously suggested, we would encourage all relevant footage be shared with the correct authorities.
“The safety of residents and bus users is of paramount importance.”
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