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Search forCampaign launched to save bus service
Friday, November 21, 2008, 09:30
First Bus announced it was to stop running the number 87 bus between Leicester city centre and Eyres Monsell in January.
It has described the service as one of its "poorest performing routes" in the city.
However, people living near Sturdee Road, in Eyres Monsell, said the cancellation of the bus service would leave them without a vital lifeline.
The service runs between Charles Street, in the city centre, and The Exchange, via Aylestone Road and Sturdee Road.
A petition has been launched and a review of First's actions has been called for.
Eyres Monsell councillor Rory Palmer, who has started the petition, said: "I was angry to hear about this and the residents are even more angry.
"It will cut off a vital lifeline not just for pensioners but for young people and families.
"Why has First not looked into running a reduced timetable if this service is a problem for it?
"I have called for a formal review into what it is doing. I am hoping this will take place at the Town Hall in December.
"Why, as elected officials, are the ward councillors the last people to know? Did First not think about consulting us on the impact this might have?"
Olive Percival, 84, who lives in Whitteney Drive, said: "It's disgusting. How do they think I am going to get into town? I will have to walk miles to get another bus."
Beatrice Holmes, 86, of Sturdee Road, said: "I get the bus every day. If we can't get that bus, we will have to cross several main roads and walk a long way to get to another one. I don't know what I will do."
The issue was addressed at an Eyres Monsell community meeting this week.
First is also axing the 31 service between Leicester and Oadby. However, that route is also covered by an Arriva service.
First commercial director, Steve Zanker, said earlier this week: "We have been looking at the least-viable routes. These are services that were struggling.
"The 31 route is covered by an Arriva service. With the 87, there will be a couple of parts of Sturdee Road which may not be covered."
Mr Zanker said the move was part of a wider timetable shake-up, which will see improved services elsewhere. Details will be announced in a few weeks.
First is in consultation with both Leicester City Council and Leicestershire County Council on the cancellations, which will come into force on January 25.
A County Hall spokesman said: "We are analysing the impact of these changes on the bus network in Leicester."
The petition will be available to sign in shops, the community centre and the residents' association offices in Eyres Monsell.
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