27 November 2013
West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin has urged local people to have their say on proposals to end publicly subsidised bus services across the county while continuing with viable routes. Worcestershire County Council last month announced plans to consult on ending the £3 million subsidy to run bus services. Harriett said: “The bus service is a vital link for many rural communities but at the moment some routes are not covering their costs. “So far I have only heard from Hanley Castle High School and a tiny number of other constituents. It may be that everyone is writing directly to the County Council with their views, but I am surprised at how few people have contacted me. “It is vital that local people study these proposals. I want to stick up for what my constituents want, but I need to hear from them first.” Bus routes in Malvern Hills affected by the consultation include: 41, 42, 42F, 42G, 43, 43, 43F, 213, 291, 294, 295, 308, 309, 310, 351, 354, 361, 362, 363, 364, 375, 377, 382, 41423, 425, 499 and 675. Wychavon services in Harriett's constituency affected by the changes include: 31A/C, 166, 350, 354, 375, 382, 540, 551, 564/565, 566, S15 and W3. A full list of services affected by the proposals can be found at http://www.worcestershire.gov.uk/cms/pdf/Service%20List%20-%20Contracted%20Services%20at%20Risk%20by%20Area.pdf The County Council consultation details can be found at http://www.worcestershire.gov.uk/cms/transport-and-highways/transport-review.aspx.