As we reported in the summer newsletter, local bus services – including our own 700 service – are under review. The West of England Combined Authority (WECA) is now consulting with local communities on how to best shape future services.
According to WECA:
“Buses in the West of England are facing a toxic mix of challenges. There is a critical shortage of bus drivers, passenger numbers are 25% down on pre-pandemic levels, inflation is spiralling and the Department for Transport has confirmed that all covid financial assistance will end in October. This will sadly mean bus cuts in the short term.
But it’s not all doom and gloom. Metro Mayor Dan Norris has secured £105 million for bus services in our region – the second highest in the country – which will kick in next year.
This Summer the Combined Authority is holding a “Network Review” of all bus services. There are no easy answers here. There will be hard decisions to made with trade-offs and compromises. That’s why Mayor Norris needs our community’s wisdom and expertise to help find the best path.”
The consultation includes a meeting on Tuesday 2nd August at 6.30pm at Southdown Methodist Church Centre, The Hollow, Bath, BA2 1NJ and a survey, which we would encourage residents to complete. You can find full details of the consultation here.