THE community in Old Kilpatrick is backing calls for increased public awareness on upcoming transport disruption in the village.

Bus services will be stopped in the area next month while Network Rail conduct works on a rail bridge near Roman Crescent between February 2 and March 8.

All services going through Old Kilpatrick and Bowling will be rerouted while the works take place.

Florence Boyle, Old Kilpatrick Community Council’s chair, criticised the rail infrastructure organisation for not informing both villages affected in a letter sent to Gil Paterson MSP.

It is understood only those near the works at Roman Road have been informed via a letter from Network Rail.

Florence said: “Any information supplied by Network Rail should also include what the alternative transport arrangements are.

“It cannot be fair for Network Rail to cause the problem and let the villagers figure out a solution.

“I understand that in a similar situation in Bowling, a minibus was put on to link with other services.

“It is beyond belief that Network Rail’s ‘solution’ is to cut off Old Kilpatrick from bus services for nearly two weeks.”

Last week we reported Mr Paterson has called on the organisation to fund a temporary shuttle bus.

Read more: Fears bridge repairs will cut off main route into Old Kilpatrick

However, the rail company has dismissed appeals from the MSP that they should contract either First Bus or SPT to minimise disruption for residents for replacement service.

Mr Paterson has again requested that a temporary shuttle bus cover the affected areas.

Mr Paterson has also echoed concerns that a public information campaign needs to be widened.

The MSP said: “Network Rail’s efforts to inform my constituents of this major upcoming disruption has been lukewarm at best.

“Lettering those in the close vicinity of the works to warn of this disruption is a pointless token gesture – the whole area is affected.

“Every home in Old Kilpatrick and Bowling should be made aware they are to be cut off from vital transport services without having to rely on the press.

“I still find it incredibly unsettling that Network Rail has refused to fund a replacement service during their works.

“Many constituents of mine – especially the elderly, infirm and those with mobility issues – rely heavily on these regular bus services.

“I once again call for Network Rail to do the right thing and ensure the public are not abandoned during their disruption.”