Villages’ only bus route to be scrapped

Isolation warning as Arriva re-routes service

VILLAGERS in Carlton, Nailstone and Barton in the Beans will soon be “isolated” when the only bus service in the area is scrapped.

Arriva has announced plans to re-route the 153 bus service, which currently runs from Market Bosworth to Leicester via the nearby villages, from April 22.

The new route will be Leicester, Barlestone, Bull in the Oak and Market Bosworth.

Residents in the three villages will have to walk more than two miles to the nearest bus stop in Barlestone if they want to use the service.

Arriva said the route was no longer “financially viable” due to low passenger numbers and apologised to anyone affected.

But Sarah Fortune, from Nailstone Community Group, said many people rely on the service to get to the doctor’s in Barlestone and schools in Desford and Leicester.

She added: “Arriva carried out a survey last year and found only 2.2 people are using the service a day on average. But that’s absolutely rubbish.

“It’s a well used service and one that’s vital for people who can’t drive in the area.

“Many people chose their schools and colleges in Desford and Leicester based on the reliable bus route. How are they supposed to get to school now?”

The group launched a petition at the weekend opposing the plans and within a few days it already has more than 200 signatures.

Simon Mathieson, area managing director for Arriva, said he is working with Leicestershire County Council to determine whether alternative travel arrangements are needed.

County councillor Ivan Ould, cabinet member for children and families, said: “I have not seen the evidence that backs up Arriva’s decision and I am against the proposal.

“I think the impact on elderly and young people in the area will be huge and will add significant pressure on the county council to provide alternative transport.”

He urged anyone affected to get in touch by emailing ivan.ould@ leics.gov.uk

Some villagers took to social media to vent their frustration at the announcement. Julie Finch said: “Arriva is stopping the 153 bus coming through Carlton very soon so anyone in Carlton who doesn’t drive is going to be isolated.

eorge Lees responded: “Bad news that. Even more isolation for the outlying villages.”