Findloss and Kinloss community disappointed as decision not to reinstate their timetabled bus service made

Villagers have expressed their disappointment over a decision not to reinstate their timetabled bus service.

Moray Council’s m.connect team organised a public meeting at Findhorn Village Centre to talk about phase 2 of the ‘Bus Revolution’ project they are expanding across the region - but not for Findhorn and Kinloss.

Last August, the Stagecoach number 32 connection from the villages to Forres was removed - officials considered adding the villages to the coach company’s Burghead-Lossiemouth route but ruled it out due to the additional costs.

A local authority spokesperson said: “The termination of the 32 service remains a local transport issue, particularly for the residents concerned about the link.

“Evidence shows that, since the withdrawal, booking requests for the m.connect on-demand service have doubled. This validates continued efforts to source additional funding from community stakeholders to address the issue.

“Efforts also include collaboration with a local community transport organisation, with the aim of introducing some form of transport provision in 2025.“

Findhorn and Kinloss no longer have a commercial service bus but passengers can book m.connect buses - when they are available.

Resident Colin Jenkins believes this is inadequate.

He said: “The connect booking service is useful but it would certainly be more convenient to have a regular service to depend on.”

A Findhorn Ecovillage resident pointed out that “hundreds” of locals are turning to cars instead.

She said: “Greater envisioning is needed to provide a service that doesn't add to climate change. Regular access to town will serve so many financial contributors. It could be a way to introduce ‘15 minute towns’”

A self-described friend of the community added: “Living in Burghead but being member of the New Findhorn Association, I was effectively cut off attending community events and meetings when the number 32 bus was stopped.

“This prevents even the long journey via Elgin from happening. I am effectively isolated.”

Another Park resident also wants the regular service to be reinstated.

He said: “For residents of this peninsula it is necessary, and even more so for visitors and guests to the Ecovillage.

“These are often people who do not travel by car and need reliable, comprehensible public transport. Having no regular, scheduled bus has serious economic implications for the livelihoods of many in The Park.”

Another Findhorn resident claimed the m.connect service is so busy that it is difficult to book it.

Her friend who also prefers to remain nameless added: “It’s not realistic to use mconnect for an appointment. They give such a large window either side of your stated need then take a long time to confirm if they can or not.

“However, it works OK for a general trip without time constraints.”

Finally, a New Finhorn Association member called for Stagecoach to reveal the passenger numbers for the 32 service that was stopped.

He said: “If the service wasn't used enough, taxis are the only way forward. I'm guessing that it's simply not a viable service.”