THE X5 bus service which connects North Berwick to Edinburgh city centre will return this summer after an almost-two-year absence.

Lothian Buses suspended the X5 service, which links North Berwick, Dirleton, Aberlady, Gullane and Longniddry with the Capital, nearly two years ago at the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic.

After its withdrawal from service, the only bus route for the communities into Edinburgh was the 124, but it had been beset with delays, as well as following a less direct and much longer route.

Paul McLennan, MSP for East Lothian, shared his delight at the announcement and welcomed the return of sorely missed service.

He said: “I am really pleased to see that the X5 service is being re-introduced by East Coast Buses.

“I have had many meetings with East Coast Buses on this issue, and whilst I understood the need to guarantee lifeline service, I am delighted that the wishes of the community for a return of this service have been heard.

“Bus travel is an important part of our environmentally friendly public transport system, so the fact that the operators now feel able to re-launch the service due to the availability of drivers is very welcome.”

Craig Hoy, MSP for South Scotland, had set up a petition to see the X5 return and welcomed the decision by East Coast Buses to reinstate the service.
He said: “This is an overdue but very welcome move by East Coast Buses.

 “I would like to thank residents who joined my campaign by signing the petition and engaging regularly on the future of the X5 service.

“This service is vital for many residents in coastal communities and I look forward to seeing it return in early June.

 “I also welcome further moves to ensure East Lothian residents are properly served by express bus services now that people are freely commuting as Covid restrictions are removed.”

Lothian Buses said on their website: “On East Coast Buses we will be reinstating service X5, and will introduce new limited stop services for quicker journeys between East Lothian and Edinburgh.”

The service will recommence on June 6 and will run an hourly service every Monday to Saturday, terminating at Frederick Street in Edinburgh city centre.