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Council Clarifies Rumours Regarding Rural Bus Services
In an effort to dispel ongoing rumours and provide much-needed clarity, the local council has assured residents that rural bus services will continue beyond the end of July. The reassurance came during a Full Council meeting held on Wednesday, 10 July.
Background
The concern among residents was ignited by reports that drivers from a specific bus company had been informing passengers that rural routes would be terminated by the end of the month. Councillor Alison Foster (Conservative, Harrold) addressed the issue during the meeting, seeking confirmation and clarity regarding the future of these vital services.
Reassurance from the Council
Deputy Mayor and Portfolio Holder for Environment, Councillor Jim Weir (Conservative, Great Denham), responded to Foster's queries. “I have been told, and I’ve seen emails from the particular bus company involved, that their drivers have been telling people that the routes will end,” he stated. Further complicating the matter, he mentioned that these drivers had preemptively suggested another bus company would take over the routes.
Weir elaborated on the current situation, revealing that the existing rural bus route contract is slated to conclude on July 31. The council had requested an extension of the contract until April next year, facilitating a comprehensive review of the bus services, which haven’t been evaluated in a decade. “The procurement department put tenders out to the bus companies, and responses have been received,” Weir added. He emphasised that there is an embargo and a VEAT [Voluntary Ex-Ante Transparency] notice until the 15th of this month, allowing stakeholders to raise any concerns.
Continuity Assured
Despite the contract's impending conclusion, Weir assured attendees that bus services would continue without interruption. “But I can guarantee that there will be a bus service on the first of August and continuing,” he affirmed, providing much-needed assurance to the community.
Political Reactions
However, not all councillors were satisfied with the way the issue was being handled. Councillor Charles Royden (Lib Dem, Brickhill) criticised the situation, expressing his dismay at the lack of clear communication. “It’s a bit of a sorry mess when a Conservative councillor has to come along to this full council meeting and ask of the portfolio holder what on earth is going on with our buses,” he remarked.
Royden highlighted the potential impact on residents, particularly those in North Bedfordshire who might face significant disruptions. “I’ve got people in my ward where 20 per cent of residents do not have access to a motor vehicle,” he said, emphasising the importance of reliable public transport. “Public transport is really important and you’re letting our residents down,” he concluded.
As these discussions unfold, the council remains committed to ensuring the continuation of rural bus services, aiming to mitigate any inconvenience to the public and maintain essential connectivity for residents.
by John Guinn
Local Democracy Reporter
