A REGIONAL MSP has welcomed a decision by transport bosses to consider local bus franchising.

Neil Bibby has backed a move by the Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT) board which will see it consult on proposals to develop a franchising model in the Strathclyde region, including Inverclyde.

Mr Bibby, who has long campaigned for better bus services, said: “This is a significant development and the strongest signal we have had yet that our local bus market will be changed for the better.

“The status quo is clearly not an option and reform is long overdue.

“Passengers in Inverclyde have put up with a broken bus system for far too long and the drastic fare hikes and service cuts we have seen over recent years the last year has made the case for franchising unanswerable.

“I have spoken with hundreds of constituents over the past year alone who are fed up with their services and I have no doubt that when passengers, community groups and businesses are consulted they will back the case for change.

“I welcome this important decision and although it will take time to progress if approved it will be a major step in the right direction.

“It will give hard-pressed commuters light at the end of the tunnel.

“I am clear we need local buses under local control, and we will continue to put the public at the heart of our public transport system.”

The Labour man added: “Communities in Inverclyde deserve quality, locally-controlled bus services and the SNP / Green Scottish Government must now work with SPT to ensure they have the support they need to make it a reality.

“It’s time to put passengers first and put the interests of the public at the heart of our public transport system.”