As a local resident of Uplawmoor. I've personally felt the challenges brought on by the recent changes to our essential public transportation service. This past July 2025, as the long summer days approached, I was confronted with a new timetable that severely cut back on the frequency of the bus service 395 that Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT) oversees. Until recently, Shuttle Buses was appointed to manage this route, but adjustments mean buses now run every 90 minutes. This disproportionately reflects with timetables when it was operated by ARG Travel. This inconvenience improperly affects those in our community who rely on public transport to meet their everyday needs – from attending critical medical appointments to going out for essential shopping. For residents of Eaglesham, bus options are often limited, with only one bus that takes you directly to locations within Newton Mearns, such as The Avenue Shopping Centre, which is especially necessary for the elderly who don’t drive. I really think that reassessment is needed for the 395 bus that runs every hour and a half, as it is not beneficial and is unfair on people who want to get out and about to go shopping and meeting other people. Vital links such as Hairmyres Hospital, where people it is a must where they are accessible when people require it. 

Here are some reasons why we should look into improving based on our concerns:

For many residents, including myself, commuting is not just a choice but a necessity that impacts our working patterns and school commitments. Access to a reliable and efficient transportation system is not merely a benefit; it is something we expect and deserve as contributors to society. Uplawmoor, along with surrounding areas such as Neilston and Newton Mearns, deserves a public transport system that facilitates, rather than hinders, our daily lives.

The reduced frequency of bus service 395 has created unnecessary challenges for residents who depend on it. A better-timed and more reliable bus schedule would not only support local individuals but would also be crucial to the community who are regular users and depend on it. 

Importantly to note, there isn’t always a bus available from those commuting at work or at school coming back from working in Glasgow City Centre. Often us, as villagers of Uplawmoor rely on waiting for an available bus and we are stranded and our only hope is 6:30pm bus back. The train arrives at Neilston station at 5:05pm just as the bus reaches on its way via our Village, leaving us with no reassurance, sympathy and hope. We have experienced difficulties with morning journeys to school or college, especially since these services were removed. Communities such as Uplawmoor, Eaglesham, and Jackton would greatly benefit from their reinstatement. There are currently very limited transport options for those of us trying to access the education we deserve.

We urge SPT and Shuttle Buses to reassess the current service timings and make necessary improvements to the 395 bus route. The hour-and-a-half period is not clearly not a sustainable solution and with a large generation of elderly, it is doesn't provide any clarity and simply added stress as a factor. The reinstatement of the hourly frequency will mean increased frequency, better readability and punctuality, with an adaptable service that meets the unique needs of the Uplawmoor community. 

Your signature on this petition is much appreciated and shows the strength and energy of our community standing up for what's right and deserved. We need SPT and the Shuttle Buses company to take immediate action to ensure that residents have access to the effective transportation necessary for our community to thrive. Please join me in showing your dedication and support by signing this petition to create a movement for a better bus service 395 for Uplawmoor/Neilston, Newton Mearns and East Kilbride.