Plans to withdraw bus service connecting Rochdale area to Ripponden

The bus service which connects the Rochdale and Littleborough areas via Blackstone Edge to Ripponden and Halifax could be axed.

The 528 bus service, which is run by Yorkshire Tiger Buses, is the only service that provides access to the Pennine Way from both West Yorkshire and Greater Manchester.

Local resident, Judith Clegg, said: “The proposed changes will affect many residents and businesses in the area. This proposal will leave users of this service without any viable alternative provision to access areas on this route.

It may even affect road maintenance and gritting in Blackstone Edge over the winter, as it is currently well looked after due to the bus route. This is a major risk factor to those in the area.”

The owner of The White House pub, located on the bus route in Blackstone Edge, said: “We’re very shocked and disappointed to hear of the proposed cancellation.

The service provides a great opportunity for those in Rochdale and Halifax to get out into the countryside. It is also a good route for commuters who need to travel over the border.”

Public consultation began on Wednesday 4 June and will run until Monday 21 July. Once plans have been finalised, the new network will be in place by the end of January 2015.

Metro wants the public to raise awareness of any issues they may have to the proposed changes, by coming to consultation drop-in events and responding to the Calderdale Bus Review Survey.

The next drop-in sessions are as follows:

10:00-13:00 Friday 20 June Tesco, Sowerby Bridge

16:00-19:00 Thursday 26 June Halifax Bus Station

15:00-18:00 Tuesday 1 July Sowerby Bridge Library

7:30-10:30 Wednesday 2 July Halifax Bus Station

17:00-20:00 Wednesday 9 July Ripponden Parish Council Office

The Calderdale Bus Review Survey, along with more information, can be accessed by visiting: http://www.wymetro.com/consultation/busreview/calderdale/