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Shadow Transport Minister confirms support for rural bus network

LAUNCESTON residents and local campaigners were given the opportunity to voice their feelings about rural bus services to Shadow Transport Minister Stephen Hammond, as part of a packed schedule of meetings organised by prospective Conservative MP for North Cornwall, Sian Flynn. 

At a meeting hosted at Launceston’s White Hart Hotel, concerns were raised about many issues affecting the ability of local residents to use Launceston’s shops and businesses, impacting the town’s economic welfare.

Many claimed that large areas of new housing development are not served by buses, leaving residents isolated.  Reduced town centre parking is seen as adding to the problem, while volunteer services have been adversely affected by increased bureaucracy.  Hospital journeys can be particularly difficult, with no direct service to Truro or Derriford in Plymouth.

A longstanding supporter of rural bus services, Stephen Hammond confirmed that Conservative policy will actively support local community transport schemes and protect over-60 concessions for the area: “People will only use buses if they are on time, reliable and frequent.  There is a feeling that where services exist at all, they are not frequent enough. Conservative policies recognise that rural bus services make an enormous difference to residents’ lives.” 

He went on to explain “The way needs to be cleared for smaller operators to compete for local community bus services.  Partnerships and other links between bus companies need to be explored to find viable ways to provide the services that serve the needs of local communities.”

Sian Flynn gave her wholehearted support to the campaigners: “Rural bus services are a real lifeline to people living in North Cornwall, who will benefit from the changes in policy that would be introduced by a new Conservative government.   Improved local transport can help end many of the arduous journeys that people in North Cornwall currently undertake.”

ENDS

Notes to Editors

For more information, please telephone Sian Flynn on 07973 189480

1st March 2010