Stirling-Glasgow Bus Route Praised for Reliability Despite Roadwork Disruption

A key bus route linking Stirling and Glasgow has been praised for its reliability and high standards in a new independent report by passenger watchdog Bus Users.

The monitoring exercise focused on Midland Bluebird’s X10/X10A service, which connects Stirling and Glasgow via Milngavie, Strathblane, Balfron and Kippen.

Despite facing significant disruption – including 34 sets of roadworks over a six-month period – the service delivered a 97% punctuality rate, with 100% of scheduled journeys successfully operated.

The findings mark the third assessment of the route by Bus Users UK in the past two years, with performance improving on each occasion. In total, 183 departures were monitored in this latest survey.

Inspectors highlighted the consistently high standard of vehicles, noting they were mechanically sound, clean and provided a comfortable ride for passengers. Interiors were described as bright and welcoming, with clean windows and minimal litter.

Drivers were also commended for their professionalism and customer care. All were observed to be smartly presented, approachable and attentive to passenger needs – including the use of kneeling functions and wheelchair ramps where required. Drivers were also noted for maintaining good communication with passengers throughout journeys.

Greig MacKay, Director for Scotland, Bus Users UK, said: “Following a recent monitoring exercise concerning the X10/X10A routes that connect rural Stirling villages to Glasgow and Stirling.  Bus Users UK recorded an overall punctuality score of 97%.  This represents a significant improvement in punctuality standards for these two lifeline services.  Passengers have also benefited from new investment by McGill’s Midland Bluebird which has contributed to more reliable services for the passengers who use them.”

The latest result for the X10/X10A builds on further success for Midland Bluebird, with its Service 38 (Falkirk–Stirling) shortlisted for Best Bus Service at the Scottish Transport Awards this June.

Colin Napier, Group Service Delivery Director for McGill’s Group, said: “This is a strong endorsement of the X10 and X10A services and the effort our drivers and operational teams put in every day, particularly given the level of disruption on the network.

“We’re seeing around 90% satisfaction from our own passenger surveys and a steady 5% increase in footfall, which shows that customers value the service we’re providing. In the areas where we can continue to improve, we will strive to ensure we do that.

“To build on this progress, bus users need better support from local authorities. Investment in better infrastructure – such as improved shelters with real-time information, high-access kerbs, traffic light priority and dedicated bus lanes into and out of Glasgow – plus closer management of utility contractors who dig up roads - would make a real difference for passengers and help us deliver even more reliable services.”

The continued improvement of the X10/X10A reflects ongoing engagement with the communities it serves, including well-attended drop-in events held last summer in Balfron and Milngavie.

Graeme Leslie, Area Director of Midland Bluebird, said: “We’ve made a real effort to listen to the communities along the X10 and X10A corridor.

“The feedback we gathered at our drop-in sessions in Balfron and Milngavie has helped shape practical improvements to the service, and it’s great to see that reflected in both performance figures and independent recognition.

“We’re committed to building on that progress and continuing to deliver a service that people can rely on.”