South Scotland MSP, Rachael Hamilton met with Harry Barker, Chairman of East Lothian Community Partnership to discuss problems affecting transport in East Lothian.
A key issue that Mr Barker raised was that of connectivity and integration between different methods of public transport. It appears that train and bus timetables don’t integrate in a way that benefits the people in the County.
Another issue raised was that the trains were prone to overcrowding at rush hour, this meant that peak times passengers are often left stranded on the platform and subsequently late for either work or school.
Another concern raised was that of usability for disabled passengers.
Rachael Hamilton MSP said:
‘Public transport is a crucial service to many in East Lothian; it is only right that the quality of this services is as the passengers expect.’
‘East Lothian would benefit from an integrated transport network. That means train links and bus links have to accommodate each other to create the best experience for the user.’
‘We also have to look at the issues of overcrowding and accessibility for disabled passengers. We must an integrated public transport system that works for everyone all of the time.’
Harry Barker added:
‘The travelling public desperately want bus/rail connectivity.’