OIC asks public for views on bus services

The Orkney community is being asked for input into future public bus services for the county, ahead of preparations by Orkney Islands Council for the next contract period.

The council has launched two short surveys — one for bus users, and another for people who don’t use the bus services at all.

The current School and Public Bus Contract will operate until March 31, 2020, with a new contract planned to be in place for April 1 2020, for a period of five years.

The tendering process for School and Public Transport Services will be carried out during 2019.

The council’s Transport Manager, Laura Cromarty, said: “These surveys are being carried out to help build a picture of people’s views and usage of the current bus services and routes.

“We’re asking people to tell us what services they use, what discourages or prevents them from using the services and what would encourage people to use public transport on a regular basis, or even as their main mode of travel.

“I’d urge everyone to spare a few minutes to take the survey that’s most relevant to them. Feedback gathered will help us as we review route and timetable specifications for the 2020-2025 contract.”

Both the ‘Bus Users’ and ‘Non-Bus Users’ surveys are available from the ‘Consultation and Engagement’ section of the council website. The direct link is available here.

Paper copies are available on request from the Council’s Transportation Team for those unable to access the online surveys, by emailing transport@orkney.gov.uk or calling tel 01856 873535 ext 2539. The closing date for responses will be Friday July 27 2018.