The acquisition aims to improve public transport efficiency and reduce costs.

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Highland Council’s strategic move
In a significant development for public transport in the Highlands, Highland Council has announced its intention to acquire D&E Coaches, a leading bus company based in Inverness. This acquisition is part of the council’s strategy to cut costs associated with home-to-school transport, which has been a source of considerable financial strain in recent years.
The council has indicated that the high costs associated with this statutory function have led to ‘significant budget pressures’, prompting the need for a more sustainable solution.
Benefits of the acquisition
Highland Council anticipates that the acquisition of D&E Coaches will not only streamline public transport services but also achieve operational cost efficiencies.
By bringing D&E Coaches under its wing, the council aims to mitigate the risk of future contract cost increases, thereby ensuring a more stable and reliable transport system for residents. Vice-convenor Ken Gowans expressed his enthusiasm about the negotiations, stating that he is committed to ensuring a smooth transition for customers, staff, and suppliers during this change in ownership.
D&E Coaches: A family legacy
D&E Coaches, founded nearly three decades ago by Donald and Elizabeth Mathieson, has established itself as the largest private hire coach and minibus operator in northern Scotland, boasting a fleet of 64 vehicles and over 70 employees. Donald Mathieson, who has over 42 years of experience in the transport industry, remains at the helm of the company, supported by his family, including son Bryan and daughters Amy and Gayle, who also serve as directors. Mr. Mathieson has expressed confidence that the acquisition will be beneficial for the future of the company, its staff, and its customers, emphasizing the importance of local authority ownership in sustaining the business.
Looking ahead
As Highland Council prepares to finalize the acquisition, further details will be disclosed following the satisfactory completion of all due diligence processes. The council’s commitment to maintaining D&E Coaches’ operations on a ‘business as usual’ basis is reassuring for all stakeholders involved. This strategic acquisition is expected to pave the way for enhanced public transport opportunities in the Highlands, ultimately benefiting the community at large.