BUS CUTS
Kent County Council’s decision to enact devastating bus cuts is wreaking havoc on the residents of the Dover district, particularly those in rural areas.
Kent County Council’s decision to enact devastating bus cuts is wreaking havoc on the residents of the Dover district, particularly those in rural areas. This heartless move has thrown the council’s own green agenda out the window, leaving many in the district to suffer.
The council cites the need to make £2.2 million in cuts to attempt to balance the books, but at what cost? Residents in rural areas are disproportionately impacted by these cuts, as they rely on buses to connect with essential services and maintain a semblance of a quality life. Slashing these services leaves them stranded, struggling to access healthcare, education, and employment opportunities.
Furthermore, it’s a stark contradiction to the council’s professed green agenda. At a time when climate change concerns loom large, the council’s decision to reduce bus services is a giant leap backward. More cars on the road due to decreased public transport availability not only exacerbate congestion but also contribute to air pollution. This is a clear betrayal of their commitment to environmental sustainability.
Announcements to increase the Kent Saver bus pass for school children from the current eye watering sum of £450 this year to £600 in the next academic year will further frustrate families – particularly when Stagecoach buses arrive late, are full or never turn up. The previous cabinet member for Transport, Cllr Brazier, admitted that given our level of deregulation, “if operators decide, for whatever reason, they do not wish to continue a service, they can simply withdraw it” suggests there is little KCC are willing to do to protect our vital services. Kent County Council must reconsider their approach – especially when many are facing financial instability.
KCC’s bus cuts in the Dover district are a grave disservice to its communities and an affront to their commitment to environmental sustainability. The council must urgently revisit its decisions and put the needs of its residents and the environment first. Anything less is a dereliction of duty.
GET IN TOUCH
As your local Councillors, we can help residents on a range of issues, such as council tax, bin collections, housing issues, social services, schools and roads and pavements.
Please use the contact form to get in touch with us. Please remember to provide as many details as possible, including your name, address, issue, and full contact details.
Your Labour Councillors also hold face-to-face and online surgeries using Zoom/Microsoft Teams. At each session, we’ll be available to help with local issues. Email us here to book an appointment for surgery.