Bus-ted: Time to Shift Gears on Public Transport Crisis in the West
Reclaim Our Buses is calling for urgent action to address the severe bus service cuts and route changes scheduled to start on September 1st across the West of England. These changes, announced during the summer holidays, have caught many by surprise and are causing significant disruption, particularly for schoolchildren who based their school choice on available bus routes.
In Winterbourne, the cancellation of key student bus services, including the 427 and 459, has thrown over 150 families into chaos. With many walking and cycling routes either unsafe or impractical, students face perilous, lengthy journeys. The introduction of a restrictive season-ticket payment model and a lottery-based seat allocation further exacerbates the problem, isolating families and jeopardising education. The situation is worsened by flawed survey data that does not reflect the current limitations and overcrowding on alternative routes.
Similarly, the temporary closure of bus stops on the A4 between The Globe and Saltford, with no replacement stops provided, has disrupted travel for around 25-35 passengers daily at Corston Turn. This lack of temporary provisions is particularly problematic for elderly residents, families with young children, and those with disabilities.
In Yate, the proposed discontinuation of the 84/85 bus route is causing substantial concern. This route, which connects Wotton-under-Edge to Yate, is vital for accessing jobs, education, and medical appointments. The replacement WESTlocal service fails to adequately cover the route or meet passenger needs, leaving many isolated and affecting local employment and educational opportunities. Despite recent discussions with local officials and First Bus, immediate reversals of these cuts appear unlikely, with further negotiations needed on routes like the 525 and 620.
It’s understood that some problems in Wotton-under-Edge stem from cross-boundary travel. However, it's disappointing that the Metro Mayor dismissed residents' genuine concerns about bus cuts, citing the complexity of WECA boundaries. The mayor has repeatedly avoided addressing these challenges, using geographic jurisdiction as an excuse for inaction.
While the new WESTlocal services, including the X91 Chew Valley Sprint, have shown potential, they require expansion and additional features, such as secure bike storage. Future transport plans must address existing gaps and integrate with new developments to reduce congestion and improve accessibility.
Immediate action is needed to provide temporary bus stops, reconsider service cuts, and ensure adequate funding and coordination across councils and transport authorities, this is WECA’s responsibility.
Reclaim Our Buses advocates for public control and franchising of bus services to better manage and respond to community needs. Franchising allows public bodies to have more control over how bus services are run, including setting routes, prices, and standards. We stress the importance of the promised report on franchising and urge meetings with MPs and Metro Mayor Dan Norris to explore effective solutions.
Anna Mounteney, campaigner for Reclaim Our Buses, states, "The recent cuts and disruptions to our bus services are unacceptable. We call on local and regional leaders to act swiftly to restore essential transport services and support our communities."
Notes
Bus Service changes are available here: https://travelwest.info/bus/bus-service-changes/
Please see Public Statements from WECA Committee 26/07/24: https://westofengland-ca.moderngov.co.uk/documents/b2262/Statements%2026th-Jul-2024%2013.00%20West%20of%20England%20Combined%20Authority%20Committee.pdf?T=9
