Local bus services could be cut

Photo: Journeaux

Local bus services may be reduced by as much as 14%

Bus services in the borough could be cut as part of government cost-cutting, it has been revealed.

As part of the tightening of purse strings, local bus services may be reduced by as much as 14%.

The vast majority of Transport for Greater Manchester’s revenue funding comes from the 10 local authorities, who are facing unprecedented budgetary pressures. The transport levy agreed for 2014/15 and 2015/16 included reductions of 3% per annum (for both financial years) in the funding available.

Due to these budgetary pressures, Transport for Greater Manchester made savings of 20% (£7.1 million) in its supported bus services budget over the two years to 2015/16.

A spokesperson for TfGM said: “We remain committed to providing excellent public transport and protecting essential bus services as far as possible.

“As supported bus service contracts have come up for renewal we have thoroughly reviewed local area bus networks. This has allowed us to plan local bus networks that make best use of resources to run services in places and at times where there is a clear demand for travel.

“Rather than just cutting services, we have maintained bus links by making savings in other ways. For example, reducing frequency in areas where there are fewer passengers, or changing bus routes where there are other bus services available.”

Councillor Andy Kelly has said that the potential cuts would devastate communities and isolate people who are dependent on public transport.

He said: “Buses in Rochdale are the lifeblood of our community helping people get to school, work and libraries. Without our buses many of our residents won’t be able to get out and about as they don’t have a car. Our campaign to save local bus services in Milnrow and Newhey was successful but I worry that they will again come under threat with these additional cuts.

“It's clear that the Metrolink has been excellent for Rochdale and the Pennines. It is however, part of an integrated transport system and buses are critical. I will be challenging Labour transport bosses to safeguard all our services at the earliest opportunity."