It follows the publication of a new timetable for the 77 service operated by Stagecoach.

The service will now run directly to Ninewells Hospital in Dundee from Taybridgehead, although some early morning and night services are to be cut from July 6.

Newport, Wormit and Forgan Community Council has welcomed the direct link to Ninewells, but has also invited Stagecoach to discuss the new schedule at a meeting and to maintain the current frequency of service in the meantime.

Stephen Rottger, vice-chair of the community council, said: "We are very dismayed to learn about the cuts in services being introduced on route 77 by Stagecoach Strathtay from July 6.

"The long-requested extension of services to directly link Newport and Wormit with Ninewells Hospital is very welcome and we acknowledge Stagecoach's change of stance on this particular matter.

"However, the loss of early morning services will reduce, or make more difficult, connection with train services from Dundee.

"In the evening there will only be two services after 6.15 p.m. to Taybridgehead from Dundee with the last service departing at 10.15 p.m."

Steve Walker, operations director for Stagecoach East Scotland, said the changes could not be altered, but did confirm that another service will be diverted to Tayport to provide additional evening services.

He added: "Stagecoach Strathtay's network reviews have involved a number of improvements across our operating area.

"In the case of the 77, we have introduced a direct link to Ninewells Hospital as a result of passenger demand to do so.

"However, it is also the case that some journeys have been withdrawn due to very low passenger numbers actually using these journeys.

"We are intending to divert the 6.50 p.m. and 8 p.m. X54 journeys from Dundee via Newport and Wormit, observing all bus stops.

"This will therefore provide two additional journeys from Dundee bus station to Newport and Wormit in the early evening."