Swallow Roundabout Delays Spark Outrage and Action from Local Councillor
Frustration mounts among Perth and Kinross commuters as the newly installed traffic lights at Dundee’s Swallow Roundabout continue to cause significant delays. Carse of Gowrie councillor, Angus Forbes, is escalating the issue to Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop after receiving a deluge of complaints from constituents. The alterations to the A90 junction, implemented by Springfield Properties to mitigate the impact of the Dykes of Gray housing development, have inadvertently led to extended travel times for many, with some reporting their journeys have doubled in length. Councillor Forbes Takes Action Councillor Forbes has taken the initiative to gather firsthand accounts from those affected, creating a survey to document the experiences of drivers navigating the troublesome roundabout. The survey, which closes on Friday at 5pm, aims to provide concrete evidence of the problems to the Transport Secretary. Forbes expressed his concern, stating that the post-installation traffic problems were unexpected, given the relatively smooth management of traffic flow during the construction phase itself. He emphasized the frustration of being unable to offer his constituents solutions or even clear explanations for the ongoing issues. Commuters Voice Frustration Local drivers have echoed Councillor Forbes’ concerns, sharing their stories on social media and through the survey. Many have criticized the unclear lane markings, contributing to confusion and further delays. Some commuters describe the situation as “outrageous” and an “absolute joke,” highlighting instances where dozens of vehicles could have passed through the junction had the lights not been present. The increased travel times are impacting daily routines and raising concerns about the effectiveness of the current traffic management system. Springfield Properties Responds Springfield Properties maintains it installed the traffic lights at the request of Dundee City Council, asserting that the design was reviewed and approved by the appropriate authorities, including Transport Scotland. They clarify that the council specifically asked for the signals to ensure safer pedestrian crossings and more controlled traffic flow from each approach to the roundabout. This claim points to a potential disconnect between the anticipated impact of the lights and their actual effect on traffic patterns. Looking Ahead While awaiting a response from Dundee City Council, the spotlight remains on Transport Scotland, which has indicated it will address Councillor Forbes’ letter once received. The situation underscores the challenges of balancing development with infrastructure needs, especially in areas experiencing growth, and highlights the importance of community engagement and responsive action from local officials. As Perthshire residents continue to face these travel disruptions, Councillor Forbes’ initiative offers a platform for their voices to be heard and hopefully prompts swift action towards a resolution. Historical Context and Future Planning Interestingly, in 2014, Dundee City Council predicted the signalization of the Swallow Roundabout would improve traffic flow and increase capacity for new housing developments. The current issues raise questions about the accuracy of these projections and the long-term traffic management plan for the area. As Perth and Kinross continue to expand, efficient transportation routes become increasingly vital. The Swallow Roundabout situation emphasizes the need for comprehensive traffic studies and potential alternative solutions to accommodate the growing population and minimize disruption to commuters.
Perthshire Planning Updates: Bingo Hall Transformation and Security Measures
Perth and Kinross residents are witnessing a wave of planning decisions and proposals shaping the region’s landscape, from the heart of Perth city centre to the rural charm of Kirkmichael. These changes reflect the evolving needs and priorities of the community, balancing development with preservation and addressing concerns about security and historical heritage. Former Bingo Hall Embraces Community Spirit The former Premier Bingo hall on South Methven Street, vacant since its closure in August 2023, is set for a remarkable transformation into a vibrant community hub. A local group’s vision for this once-popular entertainment venue involves creating a multi-purpose space to host a diverse range of activities, from lunch clubs for seniors to engaging programs for children. This initiative addresses the need for accessible community spaces and breathes new life into a prominent city centre location. Perth and Kinross Council’s approval of the plan includes a provision for a new wall to separate the community area from the remaining vacant parts of the original bingo hall. Coupar Angus Resident Seeks Security Solution After Vandalism In Coupar Angus, a resident of Grampian View has applied for permission to erect a driveway gate, citing concerns about vandalism. The proposed gate, standing approximately 1.8 meters high and spanning four meters wide, aims to enhance security and protect the property. This request highlights the challenges some residents face with property security and the measures they are taking to protect their homes and families. The council is currently reviewing the application, considering its impact on the surrounding area and the resident’s security needs. Unauthorized Roof Work Halts Refurbishment of Listed Mansion Work on the historic Newmiln House in Guildtown has been suspended following the discovery of unauthorized roof alterations. The B-listed mansion, dating back to the 1850s, was previously granted permission to replace its slate roof in January 2024. However, the recent stripping of the roof was carried out without the necessary consent. A new application has been submitted to the council, addressing the unauthorized work and seeking approval for revised roof alterations. This incident emphasizes the importance of adhering to planning regulations, especially when dealing with buildings of historical significance like Newmiln House, which has hosted notable figures throughout its history, including during its time as the Newmiln Country House Hotel. Flood Protection Measures Proposed for Willowgate Bothy The Tay Salmon Fisheries has submitted a planning application to continue the use of a bothy at Willowgate Fishery. This bothy accommodates the river ranger who manages the fishery and the associated recreational pond. However, the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) has flagged the property, located near Willowgate Care, as being in a potentially vulnerable flood zone. The proposal includes internal flood mitigation measures, such as dams for doorways and toilet bowls, to safeguard the bothy from potential flood damage. The council’s decision will consider the balance between maintaining the bothy’s function and mitigating the identified flood risks. Kirkmichael Housing Development Faces Community Resistance A planning application for new homes in Kirkmichael, south of Strathardle Lodge, has sparked debate within the community. Nine objections from seven households were submitted to the council, raising concerns about the development’s visual impact on the village entrance, its potential detriment to the overall character of Kirkmichael, and the suitability of the narrow access road. Despite these objections, the planning and placemaking committee granted permission in principle, noting that this initial approval does not represent a detailed proposal and further considerations will be addressed in subsequent planning stages. Councillor Bob Brawn, representing Blairgowrie and Glens, initially proposed refusal based on the concerns raised but later accepted advice confirming the site’s location within the settlement boundary. This decision reflects the ongoing tension between housing needs and preserving the distinct characteristics of rural communities.
Perth Museum Declines Council’s £170,000 Funding Offer Amidst Public Backlash
Despite facing financial challenges during its inaugural year, Perth Museum has decided not to accept a £170,000 funding package offered by Perth and Kinross Council. The offer, initially earmarked for the museum’s cafe in 2024, became available for general operational costs earlier this year, but ignited considerable controversy among residents. Culture Perth and Kinross, the charitable organization responsible for managing the museum, reported that the public’s negative reaction to the council’s proposed financial assistance was intense, with some staff members even experiencing verbal abuse due to perceived misuse of public funds. Chief Executive Helen Smout expressed concern over the spread of misinformation and the resulting impact on her team. Cafe Operations and Financial Stability The museum’s cafe, a point of contention since its inception due to concerns about competition with local businesses, has struggled to reach profitability in its first year. Ms. Smout explained that unexpected costs and the challenges of securing a private operator contributed to this financial strain. Despite the cafe’s individual losses, Ms. Smout emphasized that the museum’s overall trading performance, encompassing retail sales and venue rentals alongside the cafe, remains positive. She also confirmed plans to transition the cafe’s management to a private entity by the end of its second year. Debate Over Public Funding While Culture Perth and Kinross maintains that it has not utilized any of the council’s offered funds, the question of public subsidy remains a topic of debate. Councillor Alasdair Bailey, vice-convener of the scrutiny and performance committee, argued that the museum, housed in a taxpayer-funded building, inherently benefits from public investment. He challenged Ms. Smout’s assertion that no subsidy had occurred, highlighting that a commercial operator likely could not have absorbed the cafe’s first-year losses without external support. This disagreement underscores the complex relationship between publicly funded cultural institutions and their financial sustainability. Museum’s First Year Success Story Beyond the cafe controversy, Perth Museum’s first year has been marked by impressive achievements. Over 258,000 visitors have explored the museum’s exhibits, contributing to a surge in foot traffic on Perth High Street and positively impacting local businesses. Visitor surveys consistently show a 98% satisfaction rate, with two-thirds of respondents reporting an enhanced perception of Perth as a desirable place to live and work. Further research is underway to quantify the museum’s economic contribution to the surrounding area, solidifying its position as a valuable asset to the Perth and Kinross community. The positive reception of the Stone of Destiny exhibit in particular has contributed to these impressive numbers, drawing both local and international tourists. The museum’s success has not been limited to visitor numbers. The diverse range of programs offered, from educational workshops for local schools to late-night openings with special events, has resonated with a broad audience, enriching the cultural landscape of Perth and Kinross. These events have brought a renewed sense of community engagement to the museum, creating a lively hub for locals and visitors alike. Plans are underway for exciting future exhibits and collaborations with Perthshire artists and heritage organizations, further integrating the museum into the local community.
Pitlochry Spycam Voyeur Avoids Jail Time
A Perthshire man has narrowly escaped imprisonment after pleading guilty to voyeurism, leaving his victim and the local community in disbelief. Andrew Thomas, 49, a former offshore worker, admitted to secretly recording a 65-year-old woman in her own home near Pitlochry. The court heard how Thomas, driven by an infatuation with the woman, strategically placed a covert camera inside a flower vase in her bedroom. The camera, an iPhone connected to a power bank for extended recording, captured over 40 hours of footage. The disturbing invasion of privacy came to light when the victim discovered the device while adjusting the artificial flowers in the vase. Previous Offence Raises Concerns Adding to the community’s concern, this is not Thomas’s first offence of this nature. He has a prior sexual conviction stemming from a similar incident where he filmed a female colleague without her consent on an offshore oil rig. This past offence raises serious questions about the leniency of the sentence he received in this most recent case. The victim, who wishes to remain anonymous, expressed her shock and dismay at the discovery. She attended the sentencing at Perth Sheriff Court, hoping to bring the reality of his actions home to Thomas. She stated that his account of why he was no longer employed on the oil rigs had been a complete fabrication, designed to manipulate her perception of him. Community Payback Ordered Sheriff Alison McKay acknowledged the severity of the crime, describing it as a “significant violation” of the victim’s privacy and home. She considered a prison sentence “entirely appropriate” but ultimately opted for an alternative. Thomas received a Community Payback Order with the maximum 300 hours of unpaid work, a six-month restriction of liberty order confining him to his homeless accommodation at Skinnergate in Perth between 7pm and 7am, and two years of supervision. He is prohibited from contacting the victim, entering her village, and faces restrictions on his internet and phone usage. Thomas will also remain on the sex offenders register for five years. The victim expressed relief at avoiding the ordeal of a trial, which had loomed over her for months after Thomas initially denied the charge before changing his plea to guilty. She emphasized her desire to reclaim some sense of control by attending the sentencing, hoping to convey the profound impact of his actions on her life. The victim’s attendance underscored the need for Thomas to confront the consequences of his voyeurism and understand the lasting distress it has caused. The case has stirred discussion within the Perth and Kinross area, particularly in Pitlochry, about safeguarding vulnerable individuals from such predatory behaviour and the importance of robust sentencing for repeat offenders. The local community has rallied around the victim, offering support and advocating for increased vigilance against such violations of privacy.
Johnnie Orange in Perth to Close Temporarily as Owners Pursue Travel Dreams
Perth’s popular cafe and lifestyle store, Johnnie Orange, located in the heart of the city’s St Paul’s Square, is set for a temporary closure this Saturday. Owners Johnnie Yuen and Sun Sun Lau, both 47, have decided to take a well-deserved break from business operations to pursue their passion for travel after two successful years serving the local community. Since its opening in April 2023, Johnnie Orange has become a beloved spot for its unique blend of Hong Kong-inspired cuisine and curated collection of fashion and homeware. The cafe quickly established a loyal customer base, drawn to its distinctive menu and vibrant atmosphere. A Heartfelt Thank You to Perth In a message to their patrons, Yuen and Lau expressed their gratitude for the support they’ve received from Perth residents. They emphasized the warm welcome they received upon arriving from Hong Kong in 2022 and their appreciation for the opportunity to build a thriving business in the city centre. They’ve highlighted the importance of Perth’s community in their journey, emphasizing the city’s cosy atmosphere and the relationships they’ve forged with locals. The couple feel a deep connection with Perth, describing their initial encounter as “love at first sight.” This fondness makes their decision bittersweet, but they’re eager to explore new horizons before potentially returning to the local scene. Looking Ahead: A Six-Month Hiatus and Future Possibilities While the physical store will close for at least six months, the couple is actively exploring new avenues for their brand. They’ve listed the current premises for sale or rent, including all existing furniture, creating a turnkey opportunity for prospective buyers. Should they not secure a new tenant or buyer within six months, the owners haven’t ruled out reopening in the same location. Furthermore, Yuen and Lau are entertaining the idea of expanding the Johnnie Orange brand to new locations, perhaps bringing their unique concept to other towns and cities across Scotland. This temporary closure marks a new chapter for the owners, who are eager to embark on an extended period of travel. Having dedicated themselves to establishing their Perth business, they now look forward to exploring various destinations and immersing themselves in new experiences. The couple mentioned that their decision to focus on Scotland upon their initial arrival from Hong Kong in 2022 stemmed from a desire to experience the Scottish landscape and culture, something they now hope to rediscover through travel. This break will offer them a chance to recharge and consider future plans for their unique cafe and living store. Perth residents can keep up-to-date with developments regarding the sale of Johnnie Orange through commercial property listings, and the couple will communicate any future plans for their business through their existing online channels. The Johnnie Orange closure comes at a time of change for Perth’s food and drink scene, following recent developments with other local establishments, showcasing the dynamic nature of the city’s high street.
Accidental Fire Devastates Fortingall Cottages: Investigation Reveals Suspected Cause
A devastating fire that tore through a row of cottages in the picturesque Perthshire village of Fortingall in March is believed to have been caused by improperly discarded hot ash, according to a report by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS). The incident, which occurred on March 21st, prompted a significant emergency response, with nine fire appliances and specialist resources dispatched to the scene. The SFRS report, obtained via a Freedom of Information request, details the rapid escalation of the fire. It began in a shed behind one of the properties and quickly spread to an adjacent outbuilding, a garage, and a parked car. Tragically, the fire also reached an oil tank, causing an explosion that further fueled the flames and led to the involvement of neighboring homes. Among the damaged properties was Kirkton Cottage, a home where Marion Drummond had resided for 67 years. While the extent of the property damage was significant, thankfully no injuries were reported. Community Support in the Aftermath The tight-knit community of Fortingall and the surrounding areas rallied around those affected by the fire. A crowdfunding campaign, organized by Stuart McLean, partner of Ms. Drummond’s daughter, garnered widespread support, exceeding its initial goals and demonstrating the strength of local compassion in times of crisis. Mr. McLean expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming generosity, describing himself as “blown away” by the community’s response. The funds will be instrumental in helping Ms. Drummond rebuild her life after losing her long-time home and belongings. Thorough Investigation Rules Out Suspicious Activity The SFRS investigation concluded that the fire’s origin pointed towards the accidental disposal of hot ash. Witnesses confirmed that the ash had been removed from the house before a chimney sweep arrived at the property. The chimney sweep was the first to discover the fire and attempted to extinguish it with fire extinguishers before the flames became uncontrollable. Due to the clear witness testimonies and evidence gathered at the scene, the SFRS determined that further investigation involving Police Scotland was unnecessary. It’s important to note that the findings within the incident report represent the professional opinion of the attending fire officer, based on the information available at the time. This incident serves as a stark reminder to residents across Perth and Kinross about the potential dangers of improperly discarding hot materials, especially during drier periods. Regularly reviewing fire safety practices within the home can significantly reduce the risks of similar incidents occurring. Local fire stations offer guidance and resources to help residents create and maintain safe environments. While the physical scars of the fire will remain for some time, the resilience of the Fortingall community shines through. This unfortunate event underscores the importance of community support and preparedness in facing unexpected challenges.
Pavement Parking Penalties Exceed 500 in Perth and Kinross
Since the implementation of new parking regulations in Perth and Kinross on January 6th of this year, over 500 drivers have incurred £100 penalties for parking on pavements. The new rules, introduced under The Transport (Scotland) Act 2019, prohibit pavement parking, double parking, and parking across dropped kerbs. Early enforcement data reveals emerging hotspots for these violations. Perth City and Auchterarder Lead in Pavement Parking Fines St Catherine’s Road in Perth currently leads the region with 11 pavement parking tickets issued within the first two months of enforcement. Auchterarder’s Ruthven Street follows closely behind with nine penalties. Other streets with high numbers of violations include Tweedsmuir Road in Perth (eight tickets) and Inchbrakie Drive in Crieff (seven tickets). Mill Street in Perth and Whitecraigs in Kinnesswood also saw seven tickets issued each. Newhouse Road and Pullar Terrace, both in Perth, had six tickets each. Enforcement Efforts Target Various Locations While most locations have seen only one or two fines issued per day, some specific incidents resulted in multiple penalties. For example, four vehicles were ticketed on the Aldour Industrial Estate in Pitlochry on January 13th. A similar situation occurred at Almondgrove Place on Perth’s Inveralmond Industrial Estate on February 17th. A rural road off the A827 near Logierait also witnessed four separate pavement parking fines between January 8th and 12th. This suggests that parking enforcement is active across both urban and rural areas of Perth and Kinross. Council Anticipates Decline in Violations A Perth and Kinross Council spokesperson stated, “Although we are enforcing the ban on pavement parking by issuing penalty charge notices, our hope is the number of these issued will fall as motorists become used to the new rules.” The council emphasizes that pavement parking creates accessibility challenges, particularly for individuals with mobility or visual impairments, and contributes to pavement deterioration. As awareness of the restrictions grows and enforcement continues, the council expects a gradual reduction in infractions. Locations rounding out the top 12 include Main Street in Glenfarg, Levenbridge Place in Kinross, Glengarry Road in Perth, and Dunkeld Road in Perth, all with five tickets issued. The wide distribution of fines across the region indicates ongoing enforcement and a commitment to addressing pavement parking issues.
Blairgowrie Recreation Centre Opening Delayed Again Due to New Leak
Disappointment ripples through Blairgowrie and the surrounding Perth and Kinross communities as the eagerly awaited opening of the new Blairgowrie Recreation Centre faces yet another setback. A second leak has been discovered in the facility’s swimming pool, further postponing the opening date. This follows a previous leak detected in January, which had already pushed the projected opening from late 2020 to spring 2025. Perth and Kinross Council confirmed the new delay, emphasizing that contractors are diligently working to rectify the issue. The council reassured residents that while this is a frustrating situation, they will not bear any additional financial burden due to the leaks. Handover of the building will only occur once the council is fully satisfied that all aspects of the centre, including the pool, meet the required standards. This commitment aims to ensure the long-term quality and functionality of this significant community investment. Council Leader Calls for Review In response to the recurring delays, Council Leader Grant Laing has requested a comprehensive review, overseen by Councillor Colin Stewart, Convener of the Scrutiny Committee. This review will investigate the underlying causes of the construction setbacks and aim to identify lessons learned for future projects within Perth and Kinross, potentially benefiting construction practices region-wide. The council’s proactive approach demonstrates their accountability to the public and their commitment to optimizing construction processes. BAM Construction Director Addresses Concerns Paul Carle, Construction Director at BAM UK and Ireland, expressed his own disappointment regarding the delays. Acknowledging the intricate design of the pool and the involvement of specialized contractors, he explained the unforeseen technical challenges as the reason for the setbacks. Mr. Carle emphasized the importance of thorough testing and rectification of these issues prior to the public opening, reiterating their dedication to completing the necessary repairs as swiftly as possible. A Look Ahead The £36 million Blairgowrie Recreation Centre is set to become a vital community hub, offering a wide range of leisure facilities, including a modern swimming pool, a spacious four-court sports hall, a well-equipped gymnasium, a dedicated fitness suite, a dance studio, and an outdoor artificial sports pitch. These state-of-the-art amenities are intended to encourage health and wellbeing, offering diverse recreational opportunities for people of all ages and abilities within Blairgowrie and its surrounding areas. Until the new recreation centre is ready, residents can continue to utilize the current 40-year-old facility at Blairgowrie High School, which remains open and operational. The enhanced recreational opportunities this new centre will provide are expected to have a positive impact on the local area, making Blairgowrie an even more attractive place to live, work, and visit. The council’s commitment to resolving the current challenges and delivering a high-quality facility underscores their dedication to enhancing the lives of Perth and Kinross residents.
Perthshire Encounters with Imposters, Dangerous Drivers, and a String of Scams
From fake police officers to drug-impaired drivers and deceitful scammers, Perthshire has seen a range of unsettling incidents recently. These events highlight the importance of vigilance and awareness within our community. Bogus Constable Confronts Crieff Motorist In Crieff, a local resident had an unexpected encounter with a man impersonating a police officer. George Francis was parked on King Street on July 23, 2024, when Jamie Meager, driving a Volvo, pulled up behind him. Meager exited his vehicle, falsely identified himself as a police officer, and proceeded to critique Mr. Francis’s driving. Meager has since admitted to impersonating a police officer and breaching bail conditions at Perth Sheriff Court. Sentencing is pending background reports. Classroom Assault Leaves Dundee Teacher Unconscious A disturbing incident unfolded at a Dundee school where a pupil, Keiran Matthew, violently attacked a teacher, rendering her unconscious and bloodied. After the assault, Matthew reportedly displayed a callous disregard for the teacher’s well-being, further adding to the severity of the incident. The incident raises concerns about student behavior and classroom safety in local schools. Intoxicated Taxi Driver Enters Wrong Forfar Home A Forfar taxi driver, Rahim Bahar, 50, has been relieved of his duties after a series of alcohol-related incidents on April 3, 2025. Bahar, who admitted to driving under the influence of alcohol, was observed driving erratically and even entered a stranger’s residence before driving away. The homeowner’s presence briefly startled him before he exited, made a noise, and returned to his own car. His blood-alcohol level was significantly above the legal limit. Bahar, originally from Bangladesh and expecting a new child, claims he rarely drinks and was influenced by a friend. He was fined £380 and received a one-year driving ban. This incident serves as a reminder of the risks associated with drunk driving, particularly within residential areas like Glenogil Terrace and Lentlands Road. Dundee Man’s Cheque Scam Spans Tayside and Fife Ryan Lawson, a Dundee resident, has been sentenced for a protracted cheque fraud scheme targeting vehicle sellers online. The scam, which spanned over six years and impacted sellers across Tayside and Fife, involved Lawson using fraudulent cheques to purchase vehicles, leaving the unsuspecting sellers with substantial financial losses. Lawson’s complex and long-running scam highlights the increasing need for caution in online transactions, especially those involving high-value items. Drug-Impaired Driver Crashes While Transporting Vehicle Mark Hamilton, 31, from Motherwell, was found to be six times over the drug-driving limit when he crashed a Range Rover Discovery he was transporting from Aberdeen to Strathclyde. The incident occurred near Bogindollo in Angus, where Hamilton’s vehicle overturned. Though the crash wasn’t directly caused by his driving, his impairment raised serious safety concerns. Hamilton claimed he believed the cocaine he had consumed days earlier was no longer in his system. He was fined £420 and disqualified from driving for 16 months. This incident emphasizes the dangers of driving under the influence of drugs and the persistence of drugs in the body. These recent incidents across Perthshire underscore the diverse challenges facing our community, demanding heightened vigilance from residents and continued efforts to improve safety and security for all.
New Glasgow Airport Bus Route: A Courier Review from a Perthshire Perspective
A new bus service connecting Dundee, Perth, and Stirling to Glasgow Airport has recently launched, promising a convenient travel option for holidaymakers. The Courier decided to put this new FlixBus route to the test, embarking on a round trip from Dundee to Glasgow Airport to assess its practicality and comfort, particularly for residents of Perth and Kinross. Testing the Service: A Simulated Holiday Journey Boarding the green FlixBus coach in Dundee city centre, our reporter joined a mix of passengers, some of whom had embarked at the start of the route in Aberdeen. The journey to Perth was smooth, offering scenic views of the River Tay and the picturesque Carse of Gowrie. However, delays began to surface upon reaching Perth’s Broxden Roundabout, a key interchange for many Perthshire commuters, with traffic slowing to a crawl. Similar congestion was encountered at the Keir Roundabout near Dunblane, another familiar bottleneck for those travelling from Perthshire. While the onboard Wi-Fi offered a welcome distraction, these delays raised questions about the reliability of the service for time-sensitive travellers. Interestingly, despite the bus stopping at Castleview Park and Ride near Stirling and Broxden Park and Ride, no new passengers boarded at either location. The Park and Ride locations, while offering potential for convenient transfers, seemed underutilized, possibly due to their distance from Perth and Stirling city centres and limited shuttle services connecting them. The journey continued towards Glasgow, passing by the iconic Stirling Castle, shrouded in the distance by heavy rain. Nearing Glasgow, further traffic disruptions were experienced near Denny, adding to the growing concern about adhering to a strict flight schedule. Arriving at Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station before the final leg to the airport, it became apparent that the majority of passengers were not airport-bound, highlighting the dual purpose of the route, serving both city-to-city and airport travellers. The final stretch to the airport, however, was completed efficiently, with the bus arriving on schedule. Comparing Travel Options: Cost and Convenience for Perthshire Residents With over two hours to spare before the return journey, there was ample opportunity to compare the cost and convenience of the bus service to alternative modes of transport. The pre-booked return bus ticket from Dundee cost just under £24. Considering current parking charges at Glasgow Airport exceeding £50 for a three-day stay (plus the considerable fuel costs for the round trip from Perthshire), the bus presented a significantly more economical option. Train travel offered another possibility, however with a ScotRail return journey from Dundee to Glasgow likely costing at least £28, plus the additional £11.50 for the airport bus connection from Glasgow city centre, the overall price was still higher than the direct Flixbus route. While other coach services offer potentially cheaper fares to Glasgow itself, the lack of direct airport transfers from their arrival points adds to both travel time and cost, making the new FlixBus route appealing for its direct link to the airport. Return Journey and Overall Verdict The return journey to Dundee was relatively smooth, passing through Perth and Stirling with minimal delays. Despite a slight issue with mismatched seat reservations on the return coach, the overall journey time was reasonable, clocking in at around two hours and 25 minutes. The comfortable seating and direct route made for a pleasant experience, though the increasing stuffiness on the bus towards the end of the journey slightly detracted from the overall comfort. For Perthshire residents, the new FlixBus service to Glasgow Airport offers a compelling alternative to driving, especially for shorter trips where parking costs can quickly escalate. The environmental benefit of opting for public transport also adds to its appeal. However, the limited timetable, particularly the lack of service during certain parts of the day, and potential for traffic-related delays may require careful planning and consideration of flight schedules. Future improvements to the Park and Ride services, particularly enhancing connections to city centres, could further boost the attractiveness of this route for those living in and around Perth.