05 April 2018

Update - Mearns Academy transport

Aberdeenshire Council has appointed a new bus operator to take over the running of the Auchenblae to Mearns Academy route.

The council terminated the contract with the previous operator following a vehicle failing safety checks carried out by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). The company had the right to appeal but its challenge was unsuccessful.

The route will now be operated by Wishart’s of Friockheim when the new school term starts on Monday, April 16. 

Aberdeenshire Council Education and Children’s Services Committee chair, Cllr Gillian Owen, said: “We take the transport of children to and from school very seriously. We have listened very carefully to the concerns parents and the school had. I am pleased to see that a 70-seat single decker bus will be used. I hope this reassures parents and the local community of our commitment to children’s safety.”

Cllr Mark Findlater, Committee vice chair, said: “I am pleased to see that a new contract has been agreed with coach operator Wishart’s of Friockheim. I hope that anyone who has any worries about safety on this route now feels reassured. I am pleased to see that we have acted promptly and robustly to allay any doubts the community had.”