72 Bus Service Withdrawal

Witham MP, the Rt. Hon. Priti Patel, has led the campaign to reverse the proposed cancellation of the 72 service. Ms Patel was concerned at recent announcement by First Group, who operate the 72 service, that little consideration had been made for those residents who rely on this vital service, which is the sole source of transport for dozens of schoolchildren in the constituency.

Priti commented:

“First Group’s arbitrary decision to withdraw this service has completely ignored the vital role it performs in being the sole means of transporting children to schools in my constituency. Children’s access to education has been jeopardised on the grounds of economic viability.

“Rather than adjust any existing services to accommodate running a ‘peak-time service’ for commuters and schoolchildren, this decision has been taken without considering any alternative provision for this service.

“Since first being elected, I have consistently maintained that local transport services must be maintained for those rural communities, particularly where no-other alternative means are available. I am currently working with residents and Essex County Council to ensure that residents can get to work and school and that all options are explored with First Group to achieve this.”

Any constituents who use the 72 service or are affected by the proposed withdrawal should contact Priti’s Parliamentary Office by email: [email protected] or post: The Rt. Hon. Priti Patel MP, House of Commons, London, SW1A 2AA.

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