SAVE OUR BUS SERVICE

9.21.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Tue 13th May 2008

John Kiely, Joel Hirst and Graeme Riley fight to keep vital bus services

At a time when congestion and traffic pollution are reaching a critical level, First group have decided to end some Downend bus services and offer a restricted timetable on others.

They are axing the 48 bus service altogether and reducing the frequency of number 4 (removing a vital link to Frenchay Hospital in the process). Residents living between Blackhorse Road and Badminton Rd will no longer have a bus service at all.

Your local Liberal Democrat team have launched a petition to fight these cuts and service reductions.

First have drawn up these plans in conjuction with Conservative run South Gloucestershire Council and are aimed at protecting their profits.

Residents have until 25th May 2008 to make their feelings known.

Further details on these proposed bus cuts can be found on First's website: www.firstgroup.com/ukbus/southwest/bristol

The Liberal Democrats believe that it is wrong for First Group to operate a virtual monopoly across our area and yet 'cherry pick' what they want to run and then cut the rest. Graeme Riley says "Its clear from the comments of their commercial director these bus service cuts are driven by First Groups desire to maximise their profits at the expense of our

local bus services. Joel Hirst adds"As the bus operator has decided this course of action after consulting South Glos Council I will want to know what their view is about these service reductions. John Kiely concludes "I hope that you will sign our petition so send a message to First group and the Council."

Related Link:

Sign our petition.