A landmark deal has been finalised as Highland Council officially acquires D&E Coaches, marking a new chapter for the well-established transport provider.
Council Leader Councillor Raymond Bremner and Chair of the Economy and Infrastructure Committee Councillor Ken Gowans visited the D&E depot to celebrate the completion of the acquisition.
They were greeted by former owner and Managing Director Donald Mathieson, who founded the company nearly 30 years ago with just one minibus.
Reflecting on the journey, Mathieson shared:
“We’ve taken the company as far as we can and I’m now ready to retire from the business.
“Moving forward, we feel that the Council taking on ownership is the best move for the company, and everyone concerned, including our staff and customers.”
The family connection remains strong as Mathieson’s daughter, Gayle McEwan, steps into the role of General Manager, ensuring continuity and leadership rooted in the company’s heritage.
Highland Council currently allocates around £25 million annually on school and public transport services across the region, managing over 300 contracts.
The previous tendering round resulted in an £8 million increase in costs within a single financial year, prompting the Council to establish an in-house bus team.
Councillor Raymond Bremner highlighted the strategic benefits of the acquisition, stating:
“I see this deal very much as a positive move forward.
“D&E operate a significant number of school contracts for the Council, so we now can take ownership and look for opportunities in future tendering rounds to compete more effectively.
“However, I want to stress that we intend to operate D&E very much as a going concern so it’s business as usual.
“I wish Gayle all the very best in her role and we look forward to maintaining the legacy and service standards set by Donald and the whole team over the course of many years.”
Councillor Ken Gowans echoed this sentiment, adding:
“Purchasing D&E Coaches on behalf of Highland Council is a fantastic opportunity and offers us more flexibility moving forward.
“D&E is a well-established company, and we’re delighted to have reached a deal.
“We’re looking forward to working with the same team who have a wealth of experience which will be of great benefit to Highland Council.”
On the same day, the Council launched the new “108 Shopper Bus” service.
Running every Tuesday and Thursday from Torvean Park and Ride, the route connects key residential areas along Sir Walter Scott Drive, including Holm Dell, Culduthel Mains, Slackbuie, Miller Street, and Boswell Road.
The service continues through Inshes Retail Park and the UHI Campus, concluding at Inverness Shopping Park.