COUNCIL leader Susan Aitken said the scrapping of the entire night bus service in Glasgow is not merited.

Earlier this week, First Bus said it was pulling out of providing the 11 night service routes across the city at the end of July.

After much criticism, and a meeting with the council, the bus firm agreed to continue the services for a further three weeks to allow more talks.

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Rival firm McGill’s Buses had said it was actively looking into stepping in and operating some of the routes.

First said the routes were not viable – with not enough passengers using the services.

Now the council leader has said bus firms and government need to work with the council but that she feels services can be delivered.

Aitken said: “There are some clear challenges to delivering the night bus service but they should not be seen as insurmountable and they certainly don’t merit hasty unilateral withdrawal of the whole service.

“It must be part of a proper strategic overview of night-time transport in Glasgow.

“I’ve long had concerns about the post-11pm transport offering in Glasgow which is directly linked to the wider city economy but Glasgow City Council currently has no statutory powers.

“Until we do, we need those who do have the powers and resources to work with us to resolve this situation.”

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First announced it would suspend its plan to withdraw the night buses until August 20.

Aitken added: “It’s obviously not a solution in itself but it buys some time for all partners to get round the table to find one.”

Meanwhile, George Redmond, the leader of the Labour group, said action is needed to protect the night-time economy and transport.

He said: "While we welcome this, Glasgow needs decisive action for a thriving night-time economy and for business, workers and women.

"First Glasgow should assure the hospitality sector and women by announcing a total reversal of the decision to cut the night-time service.

"Glaswegians need to feel safe in their own city and have the confidence to walk home safely.

"We need a Glasgow-run bus network that is run in the city's interest, not profit."