Passenger News
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PIE fears loss
DECISION has been reserved on plans by Bennett's of Kilwinning to expand the operation of its seven-month-old Ardrossan to Glasgow service (CM March 20), despite its being "contrary to regional council policy".
Bennett has applied to the Scottish Traffic Commissioners to introduce evening and late night weekday journeys and a Sunday service. It was opposed by Strathclyde PTE, British Rail, and Western SMT all of whom objected strongly to the original grant.
The limited-stop service operates via Saltcoats, Stevenston, Kilwinning, Irvine, Barrhead and Pollok. Western SMT feared a loss of traffic from its own services from Ayrshire into Glasgow though admitting that Bennett's provided a more direct and faster service.
SPTE and BR argued that they were bound to lose revenue through the abstraction of traffic, particularly from the local rail services, as a result of the proposals. As it was extremely unlikely that revenue support would be increased, such a loss of revenue would lead to consideration being given to reducing present service levels.
The effect on payment made to British Rail under Section 20 of the 1968 Transport Act could have possible implications on the recently authorised electrification of rail services in Ayrshire.
Hamish Taylor for SPTE said the regional council had a duty under the 1968 Act to co-ordinate public transport in the region and Bennett's service was contrary to the region's policy. It was estimated that the proposed extension of the service could cost the PTE as much as £89,000 in lost revenue.
The Commissioners are to announce their decision in writing at a later date.