Few issues stir up community frustration quite like unreliable bus services, and here in Angus, we’re once again seeing the consequences play out.
The recent timetable changes to Stagecoach’s 73 service have left many constituents in Arbroath, Monifieth, Carnoustie, and surrounding villages feeling short-changed.
While there’s cautious optimism about the arrival of a new fleet of buses—something long overdue—the interim changes have created more problems than they’ve solved.
The heart of the matter is reliability. The 73 service has become increasingly undependable due to vehicle issues that, for regular passengers, have made planning around the bus an exercise in guesswork.
To address this, Stagecoach has introduced a revised timetable. Some might argue that this is a step in the right direction, especially for residents of the new Upper Victoria development in Carnoustie, who now have access to public transport for the first time.
But for many others, these changes have made life harder.
Take Muirdrum, for instance. This village is now served just four times a day—a steep cut that risks isolating residents who depend on public transport for basic needs like shopping, accessing healthcare, and managing day-to-day errands.
In the Carlogie Road area of Carnoustie, buses during the middle of the day have been reduced, cutting into vital hours for those who don’t drive and rely on public transport to stay connected.
Monifieth has seen its direct link to Ninewells Hospital axed, adding unnecessary complication for those needing regular medical care.
And over in Barry, residents near Station Road and Barry Downs are also facing the consequences of a reduced and re-routed service.
Stagecoach has committed to reviewing the impact of these changes over the coming two months.
Following a recent meeting I held with them, they’ve agreed to consider restoring at least one daytime service for Muirdrum to ensure access to Carnoustie remains possible.
That small concession, while welcome, only scratches the surface.
Reliable public transport is not a luxury—it’s a necessity, especially in rural and semi-rural communities.
Whether it’s getting to a GP appointment, making a banking errand, or simply staying socially connected, a dependable bus service makes a world of difference.
Until the promised new fleet arrives and can restore confidence in the system, I will continue to press the company to find ways to serve all corners of our community fairly.
