Reaction to bus cut scheme

Press, 19 August 1978, Page 22

Reaction to bus cut scheme

Proposed cuts in evening bus services have led to the formation of the Bus Action Group by representatives of environmental groups, community organisations, local bus drivers, and others. The Christchurch Transport Board decided to make the cuts last month after learning that the reduction in services would save $62,500 in running costs. The change has yet to be approved by the Transport Licensing Authority, however.

A spokesman for the action group, who declined to give his name, said: “We feel that we can put up an excellent case based on social, environmental, and economic arguments which will persuade the Transport Licensing Authority to ban the proposed cuts in Christchurch.’’

The Christchurch branch of the Tramway Workers’ Union is worried that the service cuts will mean staff cuts. It is also worried that the cuts will make buses less popular, and lead to a further reduction in services.

The average number of passengers per bus trip, after 6 p.m„ from Mondays to Thursdays is about seven. Some routes average only 1.33.