Many islanders are facing problems in travelling to the mainland during one of the busiest times of the year because bus firm Citylink has not put on sufficient coaches.
The Inverness to Ullapool bus which links with the Stornoway ferry is fully booked on Tuesday afternoon.
A check on Citylink’s booking website earlier today showed no more seats available for Wednesday’s 3pm service from Inverness.
In addition, there is no space available on the bus leaving Ullapool, after the Stornoway ferry arrives, on Thursday morning.
Despite families going to the Royal National Mòd taking place in Oban this week, and islanders making a journey during this week’s October school holidays, Citylink has not provided extra buses.
Many people hoping to head off for a last minute day trip to Inverness will also be disappointed.
Isles MSP Alasdair Allan urged the company to put on additional coaches for travellers.
Following a phone call from Mr Allan toCitylink’s operations director, David Frenz, on Monday evening, the firm conceded to provide an extra bus for Wednesday afternoon.
The MSP said: “Not only are we in the school holidays but large numbers of people, including many school children, are making their way to Oban to compete in the Mod.
“As a keen supporter of the Mòd it is very disappointing that Citylink cannot anticipate that there will be increased numbers of foot passengers travelling on and off the islands this particular week of the year.”
Mr Allan appealed to Citylink to put on another vehicle according to demand “rather than turn people away and leave them stranded.”
It is understood ferry company Cal Mac has also pressurised the firm to supply extra buses on the run.
Citylink’s practice of using one coach on the busy Ullapool -
Many travellers using the ferry to Stornoway have been stranded in Ullapool as the single vehicle cannot take all passengers.
Citylink insists all anyone with a pre-
However, reservations are closed in advance of the travel date if all seats are filled. Many islanders find they cannot book beforehand.
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Citylink out of tune with Mòd travellers
12 October 2015