A NEW bus service will link Dunfermline with Stirling via Alloa and will allow for easier connections to the university.

Stagecoach announced they will be launching a new service, the X22, from Monday, July 29, following research carried out by the University of Stirling.

Students can make use of the new service to get dropped off at Stirling Bus Station, then connecting with the Midland Bluebird’s Unilink service to travel to the university.

This has been launched as part of the upcoming changes to service routes by Stagecoach, with the X22 initially brought in to serve as a replacement for the 8/8A bus through Clackmannan and Kincardine.

The X22 will travel from Dunfermline to Stirling, calling at Oakley, Blairhall and Alloa up to every hour, seven days a week.

Douglas Robertson, managing director from Stagecoach East Scotland, said: “As further development for the Clackmannanshire and Stirling area, we’re delighted to be launching the brand new service X22, in response to research findings by the University of Stirling and customer feedback.

“Service X22 will offer new and improved travel opportunities for commuters, students and leisure travellers between Dunfermline, West Fife and Stirling, including Springkerse Retail Park, up to every hour, and we look forward to seeing customers benefit from low-cost tickets, improved journey times and increased frequencies in the area.”

A new ticket has been launched to coincide with the X22 service being introduced, offering those travelling between Alloa and Stirling a return journey for £5.50.

This can be bought on board the X22 and must be used for return travel on the same day.