ALEXANDRIA CC'S SECOND LETTER TO FIRST BUS GLASGOW
Dear Sir/Madam,
Many thanks for your response on dated 20th June 2025. This was discussed at the Alexandria Community Council last night and we are disappointed with the reply.
Firstly “the addition of new local services 204, 205….” is not accurate. These services are not an addition; they are a replacement for the 1/1A which no longer serves the route to Balloch (via Alexandria). These services are also approximately every 40 minutes each – this affects Levenvale and Vale of Leven Hospital area in the 205 route (204 route also has this issue on its own route in Dalmonach and Jamestown in the wider Vale of Leven area). These routes do not time adequately when changing to 1/1A in Dumbarton.
This is not “improving punctuality and reliability of services for passengers”.
The route extension on the 206 to Helensburgh (which is approximately every 40 minutes itself) is not relevant on this matter.
Secondly, on the current services 1 and 1A, the “9% improvement in the reliability…. since the change was implemented” is a frustrating response. There cannot be an improvement in reliability if you have curtailed a route that was well used before. The majority of the bus- travelling local community have stated the opposite.
As stated in our first letter, A poll created on our Notice Board page on Facebook asking, “First Glasgow - Service 1/1A – Do you want the former direct route from Balloch to Glasgow (via Alexandria) restored?” Update since June is that 428 respondents took part with 97% yes.
With this in mind, Alexandria CC suggest a compromise here. An extension of 204/205 going to Clydebank is with an improved timetable one suggestion. Clydebank is a far better location to change buses as there are more services to connect to than Dumbarton. This includes services to different areas of Glasgow and beyond.
Please take these suggestions into consideration. The current situation is not sustainable.
Regards, Harry McCormack Secretary Alexandria Community Council (date of letter – Thursday 21st August 2025)
