Edinburgh University Students’ Association has launched a campaign for a free bus service to transport students and staff to the new Vet School at Easter Bush.
“Matt McPherson, EUSA President, said:
“I’m delighted that we have so far managed to get so much support for the Easter Bush bus campaign for our Vet students. The move out to Easter Bush for our vets was a welcomed one, but their new campus which is 7 miles away from George Square, is inaccessible and expensive to get to.
“Despite the University paying £14,000 per month to Lothian Buses for diverting services to the campus, students and staff who use the shuttle service still have to pay a full fare. At £1.30 per journey, or £468 per year for a bus pass, this cost is simply unfair – particularly since Vet students already have significant hidden course costs.
“EUSA are working closely with the Vet School Council (VSC) and staff at Easter Bush, to lobby the University into providing a free bus service, which will ensure that students have fair and free access to their campus and support services. I do not view a free bus service as a luxury – those who use the KB bus each day will recognise that they receive no extra funding for travel costs and yet are still required get to classes, and use services, across different campuses regardless of whether they can afford it or not.
“On Tuesday 7th February, EUSA and the VSC were at Easter Bush collecting signatures, raising awareness, and gathering support for this ambitious campaign.
“I would love to see each and every Vet student sign our petition – and for other students to pledge their support.”
