Bus cuts could leave users stranded
BUS users have raised concerns about proposals to cut subsidies for evening and Sunday services.
Cheshire East Council launches a 10-week consultation tomorrow (Thursday, May 18) on plans to stop subsidising Sunday and evening routes in an effort to save money.
But residents have expressed concerns about the cuts, which could lead to the loss of some bus services.
They say the two bus companies - Arriva and High Peak - may choose to withdraw services if they are not subsidised.
One route affected is the number 10 between Macclesfield and Bollington.
Mark Dutland, 57, of Bollington Road, said: “I use the bus from Princess Drive into town and won’t be able to do that anymore.
“I’m lucky as I still have a car but I have arthritis and am worried about what I’ll do in a few years. Bollington is being cut off. The council should be encouraging people to use the buses.”
Lorraine Chapman, of Cornbrook Grove, Macclesfield, gets the number 9 from Macclesfield to the Moss Rose and number 130 to work as a chef in Alderley Edge.
She said: “The cuts will seriously affect me getting to work. Without the Sunday service, I’ll have to pay £34 for taxis.”
A council spokesman urged people to take part in the consultation.
He said: “During the consultation the public will be able to give their views online and on paper-based surveys at libraries and customer service centres.
“All opinions are welcome, whether they come from shift workers, local businesses or people who use buses in their leisure time.
“Cheshire East also encourages members of the public who don’t use buses to engage with the consultation.”
A spokesman for Arriva said the firm awaits the outcome of the consultation before making a decision on its routes. High Peak did not respond to our request for a comment.
Go to cheshireeast.gov. uk/bus review to have your say.