The heartbeat of many communities across Perth and Kinross relies heavily on efficient and accessible public transport. As the region continues to evolve, ensuring that bus services truly meet the needs of its residents is paramount. With this in mind, the local authority is extending a vital invitation to everyone with an interest in local travel: participate in a series of upcoming engagement events designed to gather direct feedback on the future of bus networks.
This latest push for public involvement follows a comprehensive consultation process conducted throughout the summer months, which aimed to gauge the existing public transport requirements and aspirations of the Perth and Kinross populace. The response to this initial phase was notably robust, with almost 900 individuals taking the time to share their valuable insights on current services and areas for improvement. This significant level of engagement underscores the community’s keen interest in shaping a transport system that is fit for purpose, connecting towns, villages, and rural areas effectively. Shaping the Future of Local Transport
The upcoming drop-in sessions represent a critical next step in this collaborative effort. They offer a unique, informal setting for residents to directly influence decisions that will impact their daily commutes, access to local amenities, and overall quality of life. These meetings are not merely about presenting findings; they are about fostering a dialogue, allowing local voices to be heard directly by those responsible for planning and implementing these essential services. Whether you rely on buses daily, occasionally, or are simply concerned about the connectivity within your area, your perspective is invaluable.
Councillor Richard Watters, who serves as the local authority’s Climate Change and Sustainability Convener, has vocally championed these public engagement efforts. He reiterated the importance of every contribution, stating: “Almost 900 people responded to the consultation we held this summer – thank you to everyone who has taken part so far. The drop-in events are the next stage of finding out what people want from local buses. Come along to an event near where you live to discuss bus transport in your community, and in Perth and Kinross as a whole. You will hear feedback from the recent public consultation, and you can offer ideas and suggestions about local bus services. All of the information gathered will inform a proposed model for the future delivery of public transport in Perth and Kinross, to be presented to elected members.” His message underscores the direct link between public feedback and tangible policy development, ensuring that residents’ priorities are at the forefront of the proposed changes. What to Expect at Your Local Session
Attendees at these informal gatherings can expect a welcoming environment where council officials will be on hand to listen and discuss. This is an opportunity to review initial feedback from the summer consultation, understand the key themes that emerged, and then to contribute further with fresh ideas, constructive criticisms, and practical suggestions. Discussions might range from route optimisation and scheduling adjustments to accessibility improvements and environmental considerations, all tailored to reflect the diverse needs across the region – from the bustling streets of Perth city to the tranquil villages nestled in the Highlands. Upcoming Meetings Across Perthshire
To ensure broad participation, a comprehensive schedule of nine drop-in meetings has been arranged, spanning various towns and villages throughout September and October. This widespread approach aims to make it as convenient as possible for residents from all corners of Perth and Kinross to attend and contribute. Each venue offers a chance to engage directly with planning teams and share local experiences, contributing to a truly community-led transport strategy. The specific dates and locations are as follows:
– *Pitlochry:* Fishers Hotel, Tuesday, September 24, from 10am to 2pm. A prime opportunity for Highland Perthshire residents to discuss their vital routes and connections. – *Perth:* Civic Hall, Wednesday, September 25, from 10am to 4pm. A central location for city residents and those from surrounding areas to have their say on urban and suburban links. – *Blairgowrie:* Town Hall, Thursday, September 26, from 10am to 2pm. Focusing on the transport links vital for East Perthshire communities and their access to services. – *Crieff:* Strathearn Arts, Tuesday, October 1, from 11am to 3pm. An important session for Strathearn residents to shape their local bus services and regional connectivity. – *Birnam:* Birnam Arts, Wednesday, October 2, from 10am to 2pm. Engaging with residents in the heart of Perthshire’s picturesque landscapes on how services can better serve their unique needs. – *Aberfeldy:* Birks Cinema, Thursday, October 3, from 10am to 2pm. Another key session for those in Highland Perthshire to voice concerns and offer solutions. – *Auchterarder:* Parish Church Centre, Monday, October 7, from 10am to 2pm. Addressing the needs of communities in Southern Perthshire, crucial for local employment and access. – *Kinross:* Day Centre, Tuesday, October 8, from 10am to 2pm. Essential for residents around Loch Leven and the surrounding areas, impacting rural and semi-rural travel. – *Errol:* Village Hall, Wednesday, October 9, from 10am to 2pm. A crucial meeting for communities situated in the fertile Carse of Gowrie, focusing on agricultural and commuter links.
The ultimate goal of these extensive consultations and engagement events is to forge a new, sustainable, and effective model for public transport delivery across Perth and Kinross. This future framework will reflect the genuine requirements and preferences of the people it serves, ensuring that local bus services are not just operational, but are truly integral to the fabric of community life. Residents are strongly encouraged to mark their calendars and attend the session most convenient to them, playing an active role in building a better-connected Perthshire for tomorrow.
This latest push for public involvement follows a comprehensive consultation process conducted throughout the summer months, which aimed to gauge the existing public transport requirements and aspirations of the Perth and Kinross populace. The response to this initial phase was notably robust, with almost 900 individuals taking the time to share their valuable insights on current services and areas for improvement. This significant level of engagement underscores the community’s keen interest in shaping a transport system that is fit for purpose, connecting towns, villages, and rural areas effectively. Shaping the Future of Local Transport
The upcoming drop-in sessions represent a critical next step in this collaborative effort. They offer a unique, informal setting for residents to directly influence decisions that will impact their daily commutes, access to local amenities, and overall quality of life. These meetings are not merely about presenting findings; they are about fostering a dialogue, allowing local voices to be heard directly by those responsible for planning and implementing these essential services. Whether you rely on buses daily, occasionally, or are simply concerned about the connectivity within your area, your perspective is invaluable.
Councillor Richard Watters, who serves as the local authority’s Climate Change and Sustainability Convener, has vocally championed these public engagement efforts. He reiterated the importance of every contribution, stating: “Almost 900 people responded to the consultation we held this summer – thank you to everyone who has taken part so far. The drop-in events are the next stage of finding out what people want from local buses. Come along to an event near where you live to discuss bus transport in your community, and in Perth and Kinross as a whole. You will hear feedback from the recent public consultation, and you can offer ideas and suggestions about local bus services. All of the information gathered will inform a proposed model for the future delivery of public transport in Perth and Kinross, to be presented to elected members.” His message underscores the direct link between public feedback and tangible policy development, ensuring that residents’ priorities are at the forefront of the proposed changes. What to Expect at Your Local Session
Attendees at these informal gatherings can expect a welcoming environment where council officials will be on hand to listen and discuss. This is an opportunity to review initial feedback from the summer consultation, understand the key themes that emerged, and then to contribute further with fresh ideas, constructive criticisms, and practical suggestions. Discussions might range from route optimisation and scheduling adjustments to accessibility improvements and environmental considerations, all tailored to reflect the diverse needs across the region – from the bustling streets of Perth city to the tranquil villages nestled in the Highlands. Upcoming Meetings Across Perthshire
To ensure broad participation, a comprehensive schedule of nine drop-in meetings has been arranged, spanning various towns and villages throughout September and October. This widespread approach aims to make it as convenient as possible for residents from all corners of Perth and Kinross to attend and contribute. Each venue offers a chance to engage directly with planning teams and share local experiences, contributing to a truly community-led transport strategy. The specific dates and locations are as follows:
– *Pitlochry:* Fishers Hotel, Tuesday, September 24, from 10am to 2pm. A prime opportunity for Highland Perthshire residents to discuss their vital routes and connections. – *Perth:* Civic Hall, Wednesday, September 25, from 10am to 4pm. A central location for city residents and those from surrounding areas to have their say on urban and suburban links. – *Blairgowrie:* Town Hall, Thursday, September 26, from 10am to 2pm. Focusing on the transport links vital for East Perthshire communities and their access to services. – *Crieff:* Strathearn Arts, Tuesday, October 1, from 11am to 3pm. An important session for Strathearn residents to shape their local bus services and regional connectivity. – *Birnam:* Birnam Arts, Wednesday, October 2, from 10am to 2pm. Engaging with residents in the heart of Perthshire’s picturesque landscapes on how services can better serve their unique needs. – *Aberfeldy:* Birks Cinema, Thursday, October 3, from 10am to 2pm. Another key session for those in Highland Perthshire to voice concerns and offer solutions. – *Auchterarder:* Parish Church Centre, Monday, October 7, from 10am to 2pm. Addressing the needs of communities in Southern Perthshire, crucial for local employment and access. – *Kinross:* Day Centre, Tuesday, October 8, from 10am to 2pm. Essential for residents around Loch Leven and the surrounding areas, impacting rural and semi-rural travel. – *Errol:* Village Hall, Wednesday, October 9, from 10am to 2pm. A crucial meeting for communities situated in the fertile Carse of Gowrie, focusing on agricultural and commuter links.
The ultimate goal of these extensive consultations and engagement events is to forge a new, sustainable, and effective model for public transport delivery across Perth and Kinross. This future framework will reflect the genuine requirements and preferences of the people it serves, ensuring that local bus services are not just operational, but are truly integral to the fabric of community life. Residents are strongly encouraged to mark their calendars and attend the session most convenient to them, playing an active role in building a better-connected Perthshire for tomorrow.