Portmahomack to Tain bus pilot extended

The Highland Council will be extending a trial of the 2 day a week bus service from Portmahomack to Tain.

The 416A pilot service has been operating on Tuesdays and Thursdays since the 3 month trial started in July, and was due to draw to a close at the end of this week.

Following discussions with Ward Councillors and the Council’s transport team, the current trial has been extended until January 2026.

Paul Reid, The Highland Council’s Chief Officer for Facilities, Fleet & Transport said: "The pilot is still currently running and will be until January 2026.

“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.

The first bus of the day departs from Main Street Portmahomack at 9:40, stopping at Tarrel 9:45am and Shore Road in Inver at 09:51 before arriving in Tain at 10.00am. Another two journeys from Portmahomack depart at 13:40 and 17:40.

The two return journeys each Tuesday and Thursday from Tain to Portmahomack depart at 13:15 and 17:15.