FIRST BUS are considering plans to withdraw their Clackmannan service, while reducing the frequency of other routes in the Wee County.

The company say the proposals, which are "subject to consultation", would come into effect on Monday, August 15.

If approved, the number 60 service will be fully cancelled, while the 62 and 63 will go from six an hour to four an hour.

Labour Councillor Bobby McGill told the Advertiser that the plans would have a big impact on those living in Clackmannanshire.

He said: "If they are going to cut back on these services, I would be very disappointed. They are well-used and connect the hillfoots with Stirling and Alloa. It would have a big impact."

Keith Brown, MSP for Clackmannanshire and Dunblane, added: "I am extremely disappointed to hear of these proposals from First completely out of the blue.

“These are life-line services to people in Clackmannanshire and any reduction could have a huge impact locally.

“I have contacted First to ask for an urgent meeting to find out more about the proposals and their consultation plans.”

Alexander Stewart, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife, also said he would be writing to First to discuss the matter.

He said: “I am shocked and appalled by the announcement that First Bus are considering plans to withdraw their Clackmannan service. This was an issue that came up on the doorstep time and again on the doorstep during the recent Scottish Parliament election campaign.

“Rural transport is essential to allow people to go about their daily lives. At this time, I would not be expecting bus companies to be cutting routes but quite the reverse: what we need now is greater investment in these crucial services.

“I shall write to the bus company to request clarification on this issue.”

Councillor Irene Hamilton, SNP representative for the Clackmannan area, is hoping First look again at their proposals and suggests changing the timing of the services may be a better way forward.

She said: "The possibility of the Number 60 being cancelled is a real concern for many people in Clackmannan who rely on the bus service. They are aware that this is only a proposal at the moment, but they believe that this vital service may go. 

"If this goes and I hope it doesn't, this leaves the hospital buses, Mackies and the No 8, Stagecoach bus from Dunfermline. However, the times that they run are not that great - Mackies runs a couple of times an hour, and the No 8 once an hour, but I believe the last time they go through Clackmannan is 6pm. The 'H' buses run once an hour.

"We have three No. 60 buses an hour, but there is one which comes through Clackmannan at the same time as Mackies, the Hospital bus and the number 8. If First Bus altered the times the service ran, this may help."

She added: "In my opinion this is not a good decision by First Bus for those who rely on the buses on a daily basis, but also the elderly and disabled who need to use the bus. I also use the No. 60 almost every day. There are many people who need the bus for work and college early in the morning, before the other bus services start.

"I have been in touch with council officers and I am waiting on a response. I will do all I can to help keep this vital service running. I really hope First Bus continue this service. 

The Advertiser is still awaiting comment from First.