First Bus launches first 24hr bus service in Glasgow
Service 77 to run round-the-clock linking city and key hospital
First Bus has begun the first 24hr bus service in Glasgow.
Its 77 service operating between the city centre, connecting to the West End and Queen Elizabeth University Hospital started providing trips all day and night this week (Sunday 18 January). This is being achieved with journeys added in the late evening and early hours, which will operate seven days a week.
Dr Sandesh Gulhane MSP and Louise Nesbitt from the QEUH Facilities team joined Graeme Macfarlan, Commercial Director of First Bus in Scotland, at the hospital to see one of the new repowered electric buses that will be used on the route and to help start a campaign to raise awareness.
The 24hr service builds on success First Bus has seen on this travel corridor, where there a frequency of 15 minutes. The 77 also has a dedicated ticket for trips from Partick to the hospital.
Graeme MacFarlan, Commercial Director of First Bus in Scotland, said: “We are delighted to launch the first 24-hour bus service in Glasgow on our 77 running between the city and the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital.
“It has always been a high frequency route for us, and we are now investing further in our network to build on the success we have seen while ensuring the best possible service for our customers.”
Benefit to the local economy
First Bus believes this 24-hour service will benefit all sectors of the local economy and society, helping to support the nighttime economy, shift working, leisure and hospitality and staff and patients of the QEUH.
Dr Sandesh Gulhane said: "NHS staff have been calling for transport that aligns with shift patterns for many years, so the introduction of a 24-hour service on this important route is very welcome.
"Reliable, round-the-clock public transport makes a real difference to key workers and while this is a positive step, it's important that future transport planning responds more quickly to the needs of those who keep our city running."
Essential for hospital staff, patients and visitors
Denis Sweeney, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde Travel Planning and Systems Manager said: “We’re pleased to see First Bus introduce a 24‑hour service to the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital.
“As a major acute site operating around the clock, reliable transport links are essential for our staff, patients and visitors. Extending the 77 to run through the night will make a difference for colleagues working early and late shifts and will improve access for families visiting loved ones at night. This enhanced connectivity is a welcome development for the hospital and the wider community.”
Graeme Macfarlan added: “Safety is our top priority and we believe this 24-hour connectivity aligns well with city council and transport authority commitments to give focus to the safety of women and girls.
“We are confident this round-the-clock connectivity to popular districts and vital services will quickly capture the attention of existing customers and build bus travel habits for new users into 2026.
“The bus is one of the cheapest, most convenient, and sustainable ways of travelling in Glasgow.”
Full details of the service can be found on the First Bus website https://www.firstbus.co.uk/greater-glasgow
Picture caption: Graeme Macfarlan (left) meets Louise Nesbitt and Dr Sandesh Gulhane MSP to view one of the repowered electric buses operating the 24-hr 77 service linking the city and hospital.
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