Radstock Bus Protest
A protest is due to be held this Thursday, 21st August, at the Victoria Hall bus stop, in Radstock, concerning the new 768 bus service and the loss of the popular CT buses. The campaign, headed by Cllr Eleanor Jackson (Labour, Radstock), will see protestors meet from 10.30 a.m. – 10.45 a.m. on that morning.
Cllr Jackson said: "The Writhlington residents who use the CT bus services on an almost daily basis have asked me to organise a protest about the changes to the bus service.
"Ever since the news emerged that CT buses had lost the B&NES contract for this popular service, people have been upset, as the drivers are well liked and so cheerful and helpful. As usual, our loss is Bath's gain, because CT are operating the new Newbridge service and other Bath services, though I am sure the new drivers on the new, reduced service will do their best. Local passengers are particularly concerned, saying the new reduced service means they will not have time for hairdressers or doctor's appointments.
"Meanwhile, for non-bus pass passengers doing a simple run into Bath and back, the loss of return fares has meant an enormous price hike – from £5.30 return to £7 for two singles, Radstock–Bath and Bath–Radstock for no apparent gain. Those using the 177/178 loop to Writhlington are further disadvantaged, because Wessex Connect do not recognise the ordinary day tickets issued by First and have to remember to get an Avon Rider.
"Mrs Auckland was right to highlight the isolation from which Writhlington suffers (Journal letters, 7th August), it is even worse for Haydon, with only the 414 two-hourly services.
"The irony is that the buses are currently full with people trying to avoid the parking problems in Radstock. We need a concerted campaign across the Somer Valley to get better connections for the villages."