WORKERS at the McGill’s bus depot in Barrhead face an uncertain future after bosses revealed plans to close it down.

The firm is also staging a review that could see some local bus routes being axed in a bid to save cash.

A letter sent to staff by McGill’s managing director Ralph Roberts states redundancies could take place at the Muriel Street depot unless they are able to switch to alternative posts elsewhere.

Blaming “market forces” for the situation, Mr Roberts wrote: “When significant revenue reductions take place, savings must be found to balance the books.

“We are acutely aware of the impact this would have on the business but we believe that approximately 85 per cent of staff would be offered new roles and relocated to other locations.

“In the event there is no alternative role that could be offered, redundancies may be made.”

Councillor Angela Convery, who worked as a bus driver before moving into politics, believes the depot closure and loss of any services would be “very detrimental” to Barrhead.

“I’ll be very disappointed if the depot does close,” said Cllr Convery, who represents Barrhead, Liboside and Uplawmoor.

“I have had a number of people contact me with regards to McGill’s over a lack of services. McGill’s are saying there aren’t enough passengers – well, I’m saying there aren’t enough services.”

East Renfrewshire MP Paul Masterton said he is “deeply concerned” by the prospect of the depot being closed down.

He added: “McGill’s has had a presence in Barrhead for decades and reports of the depot closure are deeply concerning for the employees and the local community.

“I am seeking urgent clarification on the matter from McGill’s management and I stand ready to help provide whatever support I can to those affected.”

Kenny Jordan, regional industrial officer for the Unite trade union, agreed the closure of the Barrhead depot would be a major blow to the community.

He said: “If compulsory redundancy cannot be avoided, Unite will support its members to ensure that it is done as fairly as possible.”

Meanwhile, Mr Roberts has told the Barrhead News a review of McGill’s services is necessary due to dwindling passenger numbers.

He said: “It is with regret that we are considering the closure of our Barrhead depot.

“Falling bus use locally, and all across the UK, is causing bus companies everywhere to find ways of delivering services with significantly reduced revenues.

“Additionally, higher costs due to congestion and new regulatory burdens are eating into those reduced revenues.

“This depot closure consultation is a result of a business-wide review that will also involve the cancellation of routes.”