Fears have been raised for Shrewsbury shops and businesses if plans to axe subsidies to nine buses are given the go-ahead.
Shrewsbury’s business community has spoken out against Shropshire Council’s proposals to withdraw subsidies for certain buses, including some Sunday and evening services, in a bid to save cash.
Public consultation ends on Monday and once reviewed, the council will look to adopt the new Local Transport Plan (LTP) and bus strategy in the late spring.
The council says lack of funding could lead to the complete withdrawal of services or specified journeys – sparking alarm among campaigners.
Shrewsbury routes which run in the evenings and on Sundays and which are being considered include services 1, 8A, 20 and 25. Subsidies could also be removed from services 26, 511, 524, 540 and 576.
Simon Airey, president of Shrewsbury Business Chamber, said: “Things are fragile because of the economy and will continue to be for a while. We understand cuts have to be made but at the same time our primary concern is the wellbeing and commercial life of Shrewsbury. Any cut in bus services would affect retail.”
John Hall, chairman of Shop in the Loop, said: “The idea of Shrewsbury without bus services just doesn’t bear thinking about.”
Meanwhile, Transition Town Shrewsbury claims that at a time of rapidly rising fuel prices, it is irrational to cut the means of shared transportation.
Peter Gilbert, campaign spokesperson, said: “It’s clear that in the current difficult trading conditions the loss of a significant chunk of Sunday custom is going to affect businesses.
Workers who work on Sundays, or who travel home after work on the evening services, are going to find it difficult to keep their jobs.”
Councillor Martin Taylor- Smith, portfolio holder for transport and IT services, said: “We understand the importance of public transport and will strive to protect these essential services. However, as some services are subsidised up to £21 per passenger journey, we need to make tough decisions if we are to protect key bus services which are fit for the future.”
A public meeting is being held to Save Shropshire’s Buses on Saturday at the Gateway Centre, Shrewsbury at 2pm.
by Charlotte Hester