Controversial plans for football supporters' buses 'scrapped'

The proposals would have seen coaches having to arrive an hour before kick-off and any stops at pubs before games only allowed at premises which serve a "substantial meal" with any alcohol bought.

The Traffic Commissioners for Great Britain said the plans were intended to support police in "reducing the risk of disorder" during football matches in Scotland.

However, the Senior Traffic Commissioner for Great Britain released a statement on Friday afternoon confirming they had now asked their officials to "cease" the consultation.

READ MORE: Local MP says plans for football supporters' buses 'can go straight in the bin'

They said: "I think it is important to stress that the traffic commissioners are safety regulators and that we are independent of Government.

"Any guidance that is issued is intended to assist bus and coach operators. However, before I can issue any guidance, I am required to consult, including with the UK and Scottish Governments. But we also consider the views of a wide range of other stakeholders.

"I have listened to the strength of feeling expressed and it is clear to me that there is further work required to understand the full impact of the introduction of any proposed guidance in Scotland.

"As a result, I have asked my officials to cease this consultation exercise."

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It comes after we previously reported that Scottish football authorities and politicians had hit out at the proposed guidelines.

Paisley and Renfrewshire North MP Gavin Newlands had described the proposed guidelines as "nothing short of ridiculous."

The SNP man previously told The Gazette: "The Traffic Commissioner's recommendations cover all sports supporters travel, but it is clear the measures are designed to target football fans specifically.

"The guidelines are heavy-handed and can go straight in the bin."