A BUS operator has axed all services with immediate effect after the firm entered liquidation.
Johnstone and Area Community Transport, which provided transport across Renfrewshire, announced on Monday that an agent had been appointed to oversee the liquidation process.
Founded by Kilbarchan resident John McBarron in 2023, the non-profit organisation aimed to provide transport from Johnstone to the surrounding areas after residents complained from the community about the quality of bus services.
The bus company said that as of Tuesday, it will no longer operate the bus services.
In a post on social media, the former director attributed the “difficult decision” to cease operations due to “rising costs and cash flow” challenges.
The firm had received over £35,000 of funding from Renfrewshire Council and the National Lottery Fund.
In their statement, Johnstone and Area Community Transport thanked its drivers, saying they were the best “in the world” and have “shown the bus industry how to operate services with genuine recognition of people’s needs”.
The statement said: “It is with great sadness that an agent has been appointed for the liquidation of our small company.
“Rising costs and cash flow problems have led us to make this difficult decision.
“SPT was informed last week that we were in a critical financial position.
“We are incredibly grateful for the loyalty of our passengers and hope we have demonstrated the demand for additional local bus services.
“We are also thankful to Renfrewshire Council and The National Lottery Fund, which together provided £35,000 in funding.”
The statement continued: “This figure represents less than half of what I personally contributed to this company.
“After working for a year without pay, I can no longer sustain the financial burden.
“The team of drivers, in my opinion, are the best drivers in the world.
“Their humility, empathy, and community spirit are unparalleled.
“They have shown the bus industry how to operate services with genuine recognition of people’s needs, rather than treating them solely as revenue.
“The entire community supported us. We wish everyone the very best on their future journeys.
“Sadly, we will not be part of them.”
The company’s website has since been taken down, but their social media pages remain online.
An SPT spokesperson said: “Community Transport plays a vital role in the transport network across our region, often assisting those who require extra help to get out and about and maintain vital social connections in their communities.
“We are sad to learn of the closure of Johnstone Area Community Transport and discontinuation of their bus services 3 & 9.
“SPT has issued an advert for a temporary replacement for these services which it hopes can be filled, we will update in due course.”
