Operator warns of bus route cuts

10 June 2009

Metro has criticised First Buses for its ‘short-term thinking’ and has warned passengers in West Yorkshire that they face cuts of up to 10% on certain routes.

Research carried out by the West Yorkshire Integrated Transport Authority also suggests the bus operator could lose significant numbers of customers due to its fare increases.

Cllr Chris Greaves, Metro chairman, said this was proof that the de-regulated bus market in parts of West Yorkshire was not working.

He claimed that while Metro’s surveys show overall passenger numbers are ‘broadly stable’, the bus operator maintains they are decreasing.

‘No other operator is proposing action on the scale of the cuts being implemented by First,’ he added.
Dave Alexander, managing director for First West Yorkshire, said: ‘Services or journeys are only being withdrawn where there are just too few people to justify them.’

Register now for full access

Register just once to get unrestricted, real-time coverage of the issues and challenges facing UK transport and highways engineers.

Full website content includes the latest news, exclusive commentary from leading industry figures and detailed topical analysis of the highways, transportation, environment and place-shaping sectors. Use the link below to register your details for full, free access.

Already a registered? Login