The boss of a bus operator has hit back at campaigners after calls for SPT to return the bus network to public control.

We previously reported that demonstrators staged a rally outside of SPT offices in the city centre on Friday morning while a board meeting was underway.

Ralph Roberts, CEO of McGill’s Group, disputed calls to enact bus franchising powers, which would give the council more power to dictate fares and routes.

Mr Roberts said: “Many campaigners and politicians believe franchising is the silver bullet to improving bus services overnight.

"Nothing could be further from the truth.

“Bus services could improve immeasurably by local authorities tackling car congestion and addressing much-needed bus priority.

"If councils were controlling buses, they would still be subject to the same cost pressures as we are.

“As a company, we do not profiteer and we invest heavily in new buses, with the highest percentage of zero-emission buses in Strathclyde.

"That is one of the reasons we have 94% customer satisfaction and were named Scotland’s 2023 best public transport operator runner-up as well as having won the top slot in 2022.

“McGill’s are eager to be part of the bus transformation debate but it has to be based on truth and facts.”

SPT is currently developing a Strathclyde Regional Bus Strategy (SRBS) to improve the bus network.

Initial findings highlighted fare increases well above inflation, shrinking network coverage, congestion delays and sustained passenger decline.

An SPT spokesperson said: “Phase two of the SRBS will consider all options to address such issues, including the provisions set out in the 2019 Transport (Scotland) Act, to present a preferred way forward in March 2024 – including the proposed operational and funding model, as well as timescales for delivery.

"SPT has been clear that any change must be founded on a robust and strong business case, with sustainable funding sources identified, and all risks and opportunities clear to decision-makers.

"Changing the delivery model will only be successful if there is recognition of the need to give priority to bus on the road network. 

"SPT welcomes the input and views of all interest groups and parties as we work towards developing and delivering the SRBS to ensure the bus network better serves the people and communities of the west of Scotland.”