A pilot bus service connecting Portmahomack to Tain has been extended until January 2026, following strong local interest and calls to improve rural transport links.
The 416A service, which runs twice weekly on Tuesdays and Thursdays, was launched in July as a three-month trial but was due to end this week.
After discussions between Highland Council’s transport team and Ward Councillors, the extension was confirmed to allow more time to assess demand and shape a longer-term solution for the area.
Paul Reid, Chief Officer for Facilities, Fleet & Transport at The Highland Council, said the council is committed to working closely with the local community to ensure future services are shaped around real needs.
“The pilot is still currently running and will be until January 2026,” he said.
“We have given a commitment to local members that during this time we will work with the local community council to establish demand and look to develop a service early 2026 that strives to meet the needs of the community.”
The current timetable will remain in place throughout the extension, offering three buses each way between Portmahomack and Tain on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
The first service departs Main Street in Portmahomack at 9:40am, with stops at Tarrel (9:45am) and Inver’s Shore Road (9:51am) before arriving in Tain at 10:00am.
Further departures from Portmahomack are scheduled at 13:40 and 17:40.
Return buses leave Tain at 13:15 and 17:15.
The continuation of the service has been welcomed by residents and community leaders, particularly those concerned about transport access for older residents, young people, and those without a car in rural parts of Easter Ross.
With a longer timeframe now confirmed, councillors and community groups hope to build a stronger case for sustainable, regular rural transport beyond 2026.
