Lothian has today (Friday 30 January) announced service improvements and new connections across its network to improve reliability for customers from Sunday 22 February.

The changes will introduce improved timetables and connectivity for several services following full analysis of the bus network. In addition to routine improvements to enhance reliability, the service review includes changes in west Edinburgh and Midlothian which improve connectivity for new housing developments and local communities.

Sarah Boyd, Chief Executive of Lothian and Edinburgh Trams, said: “As the main bus operator across Edinburgh and the surrounding area, Lothian is fully committed to delivering for the local communities we serve. The introduction of these improvements across our wider bus network will enable us to continue responding to customer demand while enhancing the reliability of our services.

“These changes reflect our ongoing investment in the network and our focus on providing safe, dependable and accessible transport for customers. By strengthening service reliability and capacity where it is needed most, we aim to support everyday travel, reduce congestion and play our part in supporting a more sustainable public transport network for Edinburgh.”

Highlights of the change include:

• West Craigs added to the bus network when infrastructure becomes available
• New links between Shandon, Slateford, Chesser and Edinburgh Park, Gyle Centre
• Direct link between Rosewell and Edinburgh city centre, all day, 7-days a week
• New local links in Midlothian for Bonnyrigg, Hopefield, Cockpen, Brixwold and Dalkeith

In line with the service change, Lothian and Edinburgh Trams have also announced that fares will be revised from Sunday 22 February. This will include Lothian Country and East Coast Buses services.

The review will see increases to fares including the adult single which will increase by 20p and adult DAYtickets which will increase by 50p. Ridacard and child tickets will also see an increase. All airport fares will remain unchanged.

Sarah said: “Since our last fares review, we have experienced significant cost increases across all areas of our businesses. Despite taking steps to mitigate these pressures and absorb some of the impact, rising costs continue to affect our operations.

“With all fare revenue going directly back into the running of a comprehensive public transport network, our decision to increase fares at this time will allow us to continue to prioritise investment in our fleet, our premises, our people and our customer offering.

“These measures are essential to protect the long-term viability of our operations and sustain the breadth of services our customers rely on.

“While no fare increase is ever welcome and we are aware of the cost pressures faced by our customers, our fares continue to represent excellent value for money.”

Transport and Environment Convener, Councillor Stephen Jenkinson said: “It’s no accident that Edinburgh has a first-rate public transport network. This is credit to our multi-award-winning operators and the infrastructure which keeps the Capital moving every day.

“I appreciate that fare increases may be a concern, but these reflect increased operating costs and ensure that these vital services are maintained and improved. Our city is unique in the sense that both Lothian and Edinburgh Trams are publicly owned, meaning that every penny collected in fares is reinvested here in the Capital.

“The service changes on the Lothian network will increase reliability and connectivity between Edinburgh and the wider region – which is essential as we deal with the challenges of our growing city.”

For more information visit www.lothianbuses.co.uk and www.edinburghtrams.com