Every morning, I find myself feeling overwhelmed and frustrated as I try to squeeze onto the packed 18 Lothian bus. It’s not just me; countless others, including those with mobility challenges, parents with prams, and daily commuters, face this relentless struggle during peak hours. The congestion and overcrowding are not only uncomfortable but also pose safety risks. The sheer volume of passengers makes it difficult to board or disembark safely and efficiently, causing delays and unnecessary stress to our daily routines.

The 18 Lothian bus route is a vital part of Edinburgh's public transportation system, serving thousands of people every day who rely on it for school, work, and other commitments. Given the city's growing population and the increasing demand for public transport, it’s critical that our public transport infrastructure keeps pace and evolves to meet the needs of its users.

According to recent data, Edinburgh has seen a substantial increase in its population over the past few years, corroborated by reports from the Edinburgh City Council's latest population demographic studies. Additionally, studies show that public transport usage significantly spikes during morning and evening peak times, further supporting the need for more frequent services.

Therefore, we call upon Lothian Buses and the Edinburgh City Council to address this pressing issue by increasing the frequency of the 18 Lothian bus during these peak hours. By doing so, we can enhance the efficiency and reliability of Edinburgh's public transportation system, ensuring that it meets the needs of all residents.

Improving the frequency of this crucial bus service not only alleviates overcrowding but also contributes to a more sustainable and user-friendly transport network, encouraging more people to opt for public transport over private vehicles.

Please sign this petition to demand action from Lothian Buses and Edinburgh City Council. Together, we can make a positive change for our community’s daily commute.