Bus service is for the chop as changes loom
A BUS service which travels through a number of Lutterworth-area villages looks set to be axed in favour of a new ‘demand response’ vehicle.
The 661 service travels through a number of villages on its way to Lutterworth, including Peatling Parva, Walton, Bruntingthorpe, Gilmorton and Kimcote.
However, Leicestershire County Council says the service is ‘under used’ and wants to replace it with a new form of pre-booked transport.
The changes were discussed by Lutterworth Town Council at a meeting on Tuesday evening.
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A statement prepared by Cllr Geraldine Robinson, who was unable to attend the meeting, was read out,
She said: “I am aware of one student who uses this service to travel to and from Gilmorton.
“I have concerns that people like elderly residents and students may be adversely affected by these changes.
“I understand there is a replacement service being planned but if people are using it on an irregular basis then I am worried that they may find it difficult to book.”
The county council says it is trying to slash £750,000 from its public transport budget through the proposals, which also affect a number of other bus services throughout the county.
A spokesman said: “We want to help residents make their essential journeys – to do their shopping, to get to the doctors, to meet socially and work where affordable.
“However, this has to be balanced with getting good value for the council tax payer.”
The demand response vehicle would have to be booked in advance – not on the day of travel – and will cost roughly the same as a current bus journey.
Taxis or minibuses could be used instead of buses.
The county council is currently asking for people’s views on the proposed changes.
To air your views, either telephone 0116 3050002 or email publictransportpolicy@leics.gov.uk.
Alternatively, write to Public Transport Policy (Room 700), Leicestershire County Council, FREEPOST NAT18685, Leicester, LE3 8XT.
The deadline for submissions is July 9.
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Friday 24 May 2013
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