Liberal Democrats call for reversal of Park and Ride changes

1.26.26pm BST (GMT +0100) Fri 29th Jun 2007

Liberal Democrats at Suffolk County Council are calling for the reversal of changes to Park and Ride routes following a dramatic decrease in the number of passengers since the changes came into effect just over three weeks ago.

As of Monday 4th June, the Conservative Transport Chief, Guy McGregor, altered the Martlesham and Copdock services so they have been running across town, stopping at a new bus stop close to Ipswich railway station and providing a direct link to Ipswich Hospital; the move has caused confusion and irritation for those using the service, especially for commuters.

Group leader Kathy Pollard commented, "The changes have been a total and utter disaster. There have been delays of up to an hour in the Park and Ride service, which means that passengers can't rely on it to get to and from work or use it to get to appointments.

We have reports that there has been a huge drop in passenger numbers, which is a major blow to what has always been a very popular service, with high levels of public satisfaction. Hundreds of complaints forms have also been handed out.

These changes were made without consultation with staff or passengers and have been a complete and utter disaster. Bus drivers will tell you that cross-town services do not work. Any delays at one or other end of the town are always magnified. Also the round town loop was extensively used by older passengers and was much valued. It is difficult to understand why these changes were made, as there are no cost savings. I have been a frequent user of Park and Ride, but, like many others I won't use it if I can't rely on the service."