‘they are cynically trying to offload responsibility’

Rolvenden could be badly hit, with Weald services including the 292, 293 and 297 to places like Lydd, Hawkhurst and Tunbridge Wells all passing through the village.

Parish council chairman Duncan Murray says his daughter uses the bus to get to work, and fears that the loss of services will hit business as well as those who are isolated.

He said: “It’s very concerning. It’s something we are expecting them to push for.

“We’re concerned that it’s the wrong policy, its isolating people especially the elderly and vulnerable.

“It’s not just about money, it’s about the quality of life. A lot of people without cars cannot find another way. It’s a big deal.

“We have had a meeting with KCC, and they told us ‘you might want to do it yourselves’ and create our own minibus and transport system, but that’s just their way of ducking it.

“I think they are cynically trying to offload responsibility, but local authorities are there to provide services.

“Most people here need to get to Tenterden at the very least for doctor’s appointments and to use other services.

“If the bus services disappear that would be appalling. It doesn’t encourage jobs in the countryside.

“I don’t think it saves money either, it just pushes the cost onto the end user, with people needing to take taxis or get lifts to get to the hospital.”

Rolvenden Parish Council chairman Duncan Murray