Councillors seek to safeguard threatened bus services (York Liberal Democrats)

York Liberal Democrats <info@yorklibdems.org.uk>

Councillors seek to safeguard threatened bus services

March 15, 2009 12:02 AM

Liberal Democrat Councillors immediately made representations to try to save the threatened evening bus services and secured the backing of transport chief Steve Galloway

He agreed that the loss of evening services on the 10, 12 & 13 routes was unacceptable.

As a result Council officials are now seeking tenders for replacement services.

Steve Galloway said, " Liberal Democrats regard the maintenance of public transport links as a major priority.

Without them more people will chose to use their cars adding to congestion and pollution problems".

We cannot at this stage confirm either the timings or frequency of any replacement services - or indeed that we will receive an affordable tender - but it is our hope and expectation that we will be able to maintain the links".

NB. Bus services were deregulated by the Tories about 20 years ago. The system has remained largely unaltered under Labour.

Local Councils only have powers to use subsidies to fill in gaps in the network. At present companies like First are free to charge whatever fares, and run buses at whatever frequencies, they judge will maximise their profits.