Anger at bus services cut back
OUTRAGED bus users have hit out at bus operator First Eastern Counties after the company announced it would be scrapping a leg of one of its routes.
OUTRAGED bus users have hit out at bus operator First Eastern Counties after the company announced it would be scrapping a leg of one of its routes.
One disabled bus pass holder called the decision “disgusting” to terminate the number 66 bus at Ipswich Railway Station and not continue to serve the section of route between the station and Bourne Bridge.
The change in operations is one of several announced by First Eastern Counties which the company says will offer significant improvements to transport links in the area.
As of April 26, the number 66 will no longer travel as far as Bourne Bridge - a decision that has not been welcomed by Wherstead Road resident and disabled bus pass holder Ian Hewitt.
He said: “I think it's disgusting. The first I knew about it was when I was told by a bus driver.
“They could have at least reduced the service so it stopped at Bourne Bridge less frequently rather than cancel it completely.”
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Service alterations in Suffolk also include changes to the 88A bus from Ipswich to Stowmarket which will no longer operate on a Saturday.
Alan Pilbeam, managing director of First Eastern Counties Buses, said: “We recognise the importance of our bus services to the people of the Eastern Counties, and have made these changes after intense consideration, and being mindful of the impact on our passengers.
“Where changes have included the reduction or withdrawal of services, these have been as a result of passenger demand. These changes mean we can clearly focus on our strongest routes in order to remain competitive, and continue to provide an exceptional level of service.
“In addition, we will able to redeploy buses currently used on these routes, to further improve the quality of service on other routes.”
Will the changes to bus services affect you? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN, or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk