Local MP’s hold ‘Bus Summit’ with providers, council and users for improved services
The MP’s for Witham and Maldon Dame Priti Patel MP and Sir John Whittingdale met with members of Essex County Council, Maldon District Council, local transport providers, and bus user groups on Friday, 13th September to discuss the pressing issues around bus services in the Maldon District.
The meeting was organised by Sir John and Cllr Jane Fleming following the Arrow Group going into administration and the loss of the DaRT services in the Maldon district. Particular concern was expressed about the challenges facing residents in rural and coastal communities, who can now potentially face taxi charges up to £180 for a round trip to Broomfield Hospital. A number of suggestions were made for route and timetable improvements as well as possible new services. Both the County Council and operators agreed to consider these but stressed that the viability of routes depends on passenger numbers. Priti and John are committed to working with all parties to ensure better transport links for the community.
Speaking after the meeting Priti said: “I would like to thank Sir John and Cllr Fleming for organising this important meeting to discuss local transport options moving forward given the loss of services previously provided by Arrow. This is an issue which impacts many residents within the Witham constituency, particularly those in the Maldon district area. Public transport, particularly buses, is vital for communities in our part of Essex, and ensuring that they work for consumers and communities is paramount. Sir John and I were able to press the local authority about how they intend to work with the bus companies to make sure services are reliable, and serve constituents particularly those using buses for education and health visits.”