Report reveals impact of loss of Barrhead 52 bus service

A report has laid bare the devastating impact of the loss of a “lifeline” bus service on a Barrhead community.

A hard-fought battle to save the number 52 circular was led by local activist Rena McGuire with a petition garnering more than 1,000 signatures from residents.

Bus firm McGill’s, however, scrapped the service, which made 16 stops in the town, at the start of May 2023, stating reasons such as the pandemic resulting in changes to how and when people travel, for the decision.

In a bid to demonstrate the need for the bus to reinstated, Dunterlie Action Group conducted a survey in May on the effects of its loss with 77 people responding, all of whom used the 52 bus service from a daily to monthly basis.

(Image: Newsquest)

Neill Patton, community co-ordinator at Corra Foundation which works alongside the community in Dunterlie said: “This is important research by Dunterlie Action Group showing the effect of the loss of the number 52 on local people, especially older people, people on low incomes, and women.

“Our communities need to access support and resources in ways that work for them.

“We hope our support for this report can help The Dunterlie Action Group secure vital transport solutions that work for the Dunterlie community, and support other communities and groups in Barrhead to take action on the transport issues they face.”

Volunteers at the Dunterlie foodshare which was founded by Rena who is head volunteer (Image: Newsquest)

The report states that Dunterlie is an area rich in community activity and participation, but also one which experiences significant deprivation with a high proportion of the population living in poverty and without access to cars or private vehicles.

It explains that the 52 bus service connected the community to vital services and provision, including the local health centre, the library, the leisure centre, cost-of-living support, council offices, museum, shops, and the wider area offering onward links to Paisley and Glasgow.

(Image: Newsquest)

The survey found that removing the 52 service has negatively impacted local people of all ages and their ability to access support with health, finance, and other vital services, as well as increasing isolation and reducing local people’s ability to connect with others.

According to the report, a total of “90% of those surveyed had either themselves, or had a family member, who has been negatively affected by the removal of the bus service.”

One respondent said: “My mother is disabled, she is under 60 but her mobility and heart condition is poor.

“My mum would have used the bus on a daily basis to attend social clubs, doctor appointments, shopping, visiting family and friends.

“She is now basically a recluse in her own home, her mental health has really deteriorated.”

Another added: “I have three young children and since the bus has stopped we’re limited to where I would take them.”

(Image: Newsquest)

Written responses also demonstrated that young people have been particularly affected in their ability to get to school safely.

Rena said: “We’re really happy to have been able to work with our partners to carry out our survey and put our We Need Our Bus report together.

“The report shows the devastating effect the loss of the number 52 has had on local people and communities.

“We hope that SPT, McGill's and everyone involved in making that decision will take notice of the findings of report and meet with the community to discuss how we can work together to address the transport issues highlighted by people in Dunterlie, and Barrhead.”