Vulnerable need bus stops

I AM absolutely disgusted with the closure of two bus stops (Manchester Road/Zetland Street, Southport).

There are many elderly and disabled people living in this area that are dependent on using buses from these stops, Arriva have not made a temporary bus stop for us, we all have to walk to the next stop down the line, or take a taxi, and I doubt very much that Arriva will reimburse us for using taxis, instead of being able to use our bus passes because the bus stops are now too far away whilst these two are closed.

I see no reason at all for the one outside the flower shop being closed.

I see they are expected not be in use for 12 weeks.

What about the elderly and disabled?

I sent the above to Arriva, they replied: “Unfortunately Arriva do not own or maintain the bus stops within this area.

“This is the responsibility of the council in your local area, they would also be responsible for placing temporary bus stops for you to board at whilst these other bus stops are closed.”

Sent email to three councillors, got a reply from one: “I read the response from Arriva and I don’t think they are correct when they say that the council is responsible for the bus stops.

“I believe they are Merseytravel’s responsibility.”

Pass the buck time! Is nobody going to take care of the elderly and disabled? Gary Marshall Southport

IN DEFENCE OF DOGS

REGARDING the letter from that person who branded dogs as “horrible creatures” (Visiter, March 2).

Well, whoever you are, you have highlighted by your attitude just why it is that we have so much affection for dogs. Also by the way - most of the “horrible creatures” on this earth have two legs. A Worthington

Southport

THREAT TO FREEDOM

IT IS clear that Sefton council are concerned with dog fouling and I don’t know any responsible owner who would not want this matter dealt with too.

However, the public spaces protection orders they wish to put in place are not just about dog fouling.

It also includes a proposal to prevent dogs being allowed off the lead anywhere in Sefton.

Most people would agree that our streets and some countryside areas such as livestock enclosures are places where dog should be on leads at all times.

However, the health and wellbeing of dogs requires them to have off-lead walks.

Currently this experience is taking place in parks and open spaces including the sand dunes, woodlands and on our beaches.

However, this could change once the PSPOs are passed by Sefton Council this summer.

The Kennel Club and the RSPCA both recognise the importance of dogs being allowed to run and play off lead.

The RSPCA states: “Dogs enjoy interacting and playing with other people and animals and it is important that they are able to express this and other normal behaviour off the lead.”

The Kennel Club adds: “Since the introduction of the Animal Welfare Act 2006 there is a legal requirement for those responsible for dogs to provide them with