Midland Bluebird has reported a 38% year-on-year increase in passenger volume on its Unilink bus service in Stirling after the dedicated fleet was given a makeover in September.
As well as new branding, the service to University of Stirling also underwent timetable changes as the new academic year began.
Compared to the same time last year, more than one third more journeys are being made on the route, the operator has announced.
Buses bow run every eight minutes between Stirling city centre and the campus, in addition to night buses.
Alex Hornby, Group Managing Director of McGill’s Bus Group, says: “Our reinvention of Unilink is another landmark chapter in our transformation at Midland Bluebird and another success story to support McGills’ track record of business turnaround.
“The presentation of Unlink deliberately aligns the bus to the needs of those studying, working and visiting the University of Stirling. The fleet is instantly recognisable, with fun and clear branding that makes it instantly clear as to how easy the bus is to use.
Given our additional focus on service delivery, including having our team on hand at busy times to sell tickets and regulate the timetable, we are not surprised that our winning formula is achieving these outstanding levels of growth.
“We will continue to work with colleagues at the University and Student Union to support staff, students and their sustainability goals by providing a cleaner and greener mode of transport that makes the bus a more credible choice for their travel needs.”
Greig Mackay, Director for Scotland of Bus Users UK, adds: “This investment by McGill’s in Unlink, which provides students with an 8-minute frequent service to the University is a major asset for Stirling, early patronage results already indicate that students are utilising this frequency.
“It emphasises the importance of good quality, frequent and reliable bus services which are crucial for passengers to access that can hopefully encourage modal shift from private vehicles as well.”
