Bus service ends in The Lane, Randwick

As most will know, the bus service has ceased going along The Lane in Randwick due to the problems with poorly parked cars. The loss of this part of the service, as I've noted previously, is of concern especially as it is these small cuts that can lead to an already struggling service being cut completely. However the County have assured me that there is no plan to axe the service completely - bus users who have been informed by a bus driver that this was the case, have been misinformed.

I understand the current bus companies will not be restoring the service to The Lane. In contrast the previous company, Cotswold Experience, have informed me they would be happy to return to running buses along the old route. Unfortunately the way contracts work this is not an option at present - nor it seems is there a possibility of using a smaller bus on this route as suggested by some.

The District Council does not have responsibilities for these bus services but I have raised the issue with County officers. I have also expressed concerns that the occasional parking problems in The Lane still need attention if we want to ensure proper access by the Emergency services. However this was not seen as a significant problem by the Highways Department.

Only a handful of people used the bus service from The Lane, but I would welcome more examples of how cutting this service has affected people locally. We want to ensure these views are made to the County Council when they review contracts. Have people managed to walk to other bus stops or found satisfactory alternatives?


Ring and Ride alternative for some?

One option maybe the Ring and Ride and Volunteer Car Service that can be used for essential journeys like doctor's appointments. In the past this has only been open to people with mobility problems, however it has been extended for use by people without access to cars in rural areas without bus services. I have spoken with them and Randwick village centre now qualifies.

Fares start from £2.50 and you need to register first - for details telephone 759005 between 9.30 and 1.00. They are also very much in need of more volunteer drivers who get paid a mileage rate. This option clearly does not replace a regular bus service but maybe helpful for some in the village.