County council extends consultation on bus proposals
North Yorkshire County Council has agreed to delay the implementation of changes to bus services in Craven to allow a three week public consultation period.
The county council wrote to parish councils and bus users last spring asking for comments and suggestions about bus services in the area and used these responses to inform decisions on appropriate levels of service for the future.
For example current proposals maintain access to medical facilities, Airedale Hospital and service centres for shopping. They also adjust the frequency of service to a level relative to current usage.
Although the county council sought comments from local Members in November the extended consultation period will now allow the wider community to look carefully at the detail of the proposals.
Cllr Chris Metcalfe, executive member for public transport said: “It is important that the council ensures value for money in all areas. Our judgement is that the level of service we have proposed is appropriate for the level of usage from the areas served. The additional cost to the council of retaining present service levels is almost £200,000 per annum.
“We have had considerable local interest in the proposals and recognise that we need more time for additional consultation so we can explain our proposals in detail.”
The frequency of operation on service 78A has been reduced to approximately every two hours. However this scheduled service will be supplemented by a flexible door to door demand responsive service offered by Craven Little Red Bus. This type of service operates very successfully in other areas of the county.
Councillor Patrick Mulligan who represents the Airedale ward which includes Cononley said that he applauded the council for responding positively to local concerns.
Comments and suggestions should be made in writing by Monday 27th February 2012 to the following address:-
Business and Environmental Services
Integrated Passenger Transport
Public Transport Team
County Hall
Northallerton
North Yorkshire
DL7 8AH
or email: passenger.transport@northyorks.gov.uk