A new coach service between Perth and Dundee, which will provide a vital link between the region’s busiest hospitals, will launch later this month.
Stagecoach has revealed details of its express Coastrider X7 route. The coach operates between Aberdeen and Dundee every day but the route is now being extended to Perth.
It has been hailed as a “major benefit” to passengers, particularly patients and visitors attending Royal Victoria and Ninewells hospitals in Dundee and the Perth Royal Infirmary.
It will also stop at Dundee University and the Angus College Gardyne campus.
Stagecoach has invested about £2.4 million in a fleet of eight luxury coaches with leather, reclining seats, air conditioning, free Wi-fi and bike racks.
The new timetable begins on Monday November 24.
Managing director Andrew Jarvis said: “The Coastrider X7 route has been very popular since its launch in 2011 and we’ve added extra journeys as the route has grown over the years.
“The extension of the route will provide great new links for so many people travelling to college and university, hospital sites and will, of course, provide relaxing journeys along our beautiful coastline.”
Councillor Willie Wilson has welcomed the service, claiming it will offer more flexibility and “open up options for outpatients and workers”.
He added: “The recent hike in parking charges at Ninewells Hospital has made the introduction of this service even more important.”
It is understood the Coastrider X7 will re-establish several routes which were cut two years ago.