CRAIG Hoy, a Conservative MSP for South Scotland, has welcomed the publication of a timetable for the returning X5 bus service, which was axed by Lothian Buses over two years ago.
The X5 bus was an express bus service travelling between North Berwick and Edinburgh via the coastal villages of Longniddry, Aberlady, Gullane and Dirleton.
The service is due to return on Monday 6 June 2022.
Craig Hoy previously called for the service’s return and launched a petition to reinstate the X5 service alongside fellow Conservative Councillor for North Berwick Coastal Jeremy Findlay, which received over a thousand signatures.
The incoming X5 bus will operate hourly between Edinburgh and North Berwick from 6:37am to 6:23pm on weekdays and 7:45am to 6:18pm on Saturdays.
Mr Hoy has welcomed the service’s reinstatement, saying: “I am delighted that the X5 bus service is due to return from Monday 6 June.
“This is a great result for the local community, and it shows the strength of concerted community campaigning.
“I am concerned that the 7:33am service from North Berwick to Edinburgh will arrive at Frederick Street at 8:57am, which may be challenging for commuters looking to get into the office at 9am, so I have written to Mr Nigel Serafini and the Transport Officer at East Lothian Council to see if any amendments can be made.
“However this is nonetheless great for the community, and I want to thank everyone who supported by petition.”
North Berwick Coastal Councillor Jeremy Findlay said: “I am over-the-moon by the reinstatement of the X5 bus service.
“This could not have been achieved without Craig’s fantastic local campaign to get the service reinstated on behalf of residents.
“It is a fantastic result which will give people a more enjoyable commute into the city, which is quicker, greener and cheaper than taking the car.
“My thanks go out to Craig and everyone who supported him in getting the service back.”
You can download the timetable for incoming X5 bus service at: https://www.lothianbuses.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/X5_220605.pdf
