During the festive season, Aberdeen City Council has decided to make several night buses operating across the city and Aberdeenshire free. This move is aimed at encouraging more people to spend time in the city center and then use the safe and free transport provided from midnight to approximately 3.30 am. The buses will be operating on weekends from November 16 until January 1, with funding coming from bus lane enforcement revenue.
The council’s decision to offer free night buses has been met with enthusiasm from council leaders and First Bus, the operator of the bus routes. Aberdeen City Council co-leader Ian Yuill expressed his delight at being able to provide these free night bus services, highlighting the popularity of Aberdeen’s night buses in the past. He believes that the buses will be just as popular this year, especially during the festive period when more people are out enjoying the city’s cafes, restaurants, and pubs.
Co-leader councillor Christian Allard also welcomed the return of the night buses, emphasizing the positive impact it will have on both people enjoying a night out and businesses in the city center. The move is seen as a way to support businesses by providing people with another transport option for getting home safely.
David Adam, operations manager for First Aberdeen, shared his excitement about running Aberdeen’s night bus network over the festive period. He believes that the free night buses will not only support the city’s night-time economy but also help people get home safely and free of charge at the weekend. By offering this service, more people will be able to enjoy what Aberdeen has to offer without worrying about how to get home after a night out.
The free night bus services in Aberdeen will cover ten routes, including destinations like Dubford, Ashwood, Danestone, Ellon, Balmedie, Newburgh, Bucksburn, Dyce, Inverurie, Blackburn, Kintore, Torry, Northfield, Kingswells, Westhill, Banchory, Cults, Peterculter, Kincorth, Cove, Garthdee, Stonehaven, Portlethen, and Newtonhill. This comprehensive network aims to provide convenient and safe transport options for residents and visitors alike.
Overall, the introduction of free night buses in Aberdeen is a positive step towards promoting safety and accessibility in the city during the festive season. With support from Aberdeen City Council and First Bus, residents and visitors can now enjoy their nights out without worrying about how to get home. This initiative not only benefits individuals but also contributes to the overall vibrancy and success of Aberdeen’s night-time economy.
