Teething trouble for transport scheme

A NEW integrated transport system involving buses and trains in the Halesworth area is causing problems for a number of residents.

The situation is so serious that Halesworth Town Council has written to the First Bus company in a bid to find a solution.

The idea to link local transport services in Halesworth has been widely praised as it means people can plan a journey using both buses and trains and purchase a single ticket.

However, people living close to the town's railway station have been upset at route changes introduced as part of the new service.

Instead of using Station Road and arriving at the front of the station the buses now use Bungay Road and turn around at the Bramblewood Way and Dairy Hill roundabout at the rear of the station.

Paul Whitlow, of Halesworth Town Council, said: "Residents have reported that the large, sometimes double-decker buses, are unsuitable for this route as the drivers are having problems turning.

"The present situation is unsafe with buses often reversing up Dairy Hill to turn."

Residents are concerned that the open air swimming pool on Dairy Hill will be busy during the summer months and there could be an accident involving pedestrians.

Youngsters also use the route when walking to the town's middle and primary schools.

"If integrated transport solutions are to be found, public transport operators must consult with transport users, residents, and the town or parish council before bringing in new routes.

"The first anyone knew about these route changes was when the buses appeared," said Mr Whitlow.

He said urgent discussions were now needed and the town council was asking for a meeting with representatives of First Bus to see how the problems can be addressed.

Philip Seago, operations and commercial director of First, said: "We have been made aware of the residents' concerns and are currently looking into the situation.

"We would be happy to meet with the town council to discuss how we can improve the this situation."