New management of the City Sightseeing bus service aims to capitalize on tourist influx.
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The Highland Council is gearing up to capitalize on the expected surge in tourism this year through its newly acquired Inverness hop-on hop-off bus service. With the influx of visitors anticipated to explore the scenic beauty of the Highlands, council leaders are optimistic that this venture will generate significant additional revenue for the local government.
Transition to council control
In a strategic move, the Highland Council has taken over the operations of D&E Coaches, which has been managing the City Sightseeing bus service for several years. This transition is part of a broader initiative to enhance public transport services while simultaneously addressing rising operational costs.
The council’s decision was influenced by an alarming £8 million increase in expenses associated with hiring private buses for school runs, prompting a reevaluation of their transportation strategies.
Revenue generation and future plans
With the new management structure in place, all revenue generated from the Inverness City Sightseeing franchise will now contribute directly to the Highland Council’s financial resources. Council leader Raymond Bremner emphasized the importance of exploring innovative revenue streams to alleviate budgetary pressures. He stated, “The council is always looking at ways to create new revenue,” highlighting the potential for the city-hopper experience to evolve based on demand.
Enhancing the tourist experience
As the council prepares for the anticipated influx of tourists, there are discussions about expanding the bus service, particularly in light of the reopening of Inverness Castle. Chair of the Economy and Infrastructure Committee, Ken Gowans, hinted at the possibility of enhancing the service to accommodate the growing number of visitors. “We’ve got a lot of things happening in Inverness, we’ve got the castle coming up this year,” he noted, suggesting that the council is poised to adapt to the changing landscape of tourism in the region.
Current service offerings
Currently, the hop-on hop-off bus service operates a circular route that includes popular destinations such as Loch Ness. The pricing structure is designed to be accessible, with a 24-hour ticket costing £12 for adults and £6 for children. Despite the changes in management, council leaders have assured the public that it will be “business as usual” for D&E Coaches, maintaining the quality of service that residents and tourists have come to expect.
Conclusion
As Inverness prepares for a busy tourist season, the Highland Council’s strategic acquisition of the City Sightseeing bus service represents a proactive approach to enhancing local revenue. By leveraging the expected increase in visitors, the council aims to not only improve public transport but also ensure the sustainability of essential services for the community. With ongoing developments and potential expansions on the horizon, the future looks promising for both the council and the vibrant tourism sector in Inverness.
