The Royal Borough ask the audience

Published in The Royal Borough Observer on Thu 19th Mar 2009

RESIDENTS in Maidenhead had a chance to have their say on a re-routed bus service launched in the town.

Royal Borough councillors, transport officers and bus operator Courtney Coaches were on hand on Monday at a passengers' surgery for bus users affected by changes to the route 6 service.

Following the launch of the new routes at the beginning of February, bus passengers in the Cookham Road and Gardner Road area have spoken out against changes, which have meant that their part of the town is no longer served by bus route 6.

More than 160 residents attended the surgery held in the mobile library located in the lay-by adjacent to St Mary's School in Cookham Road.

Lead member for highways and streetcare, cllr Colin Rayner, said: "It was a very worthwhile exercise. I have been speaking about this bus service for about six months now and I learnt more in an hour than the last six months.

"I am a problem solver and we are going to solve the problem. I met a lot of people that have been put out. It wasn't done on purpose. We thought we were improving the bus service and it was for some, but disadvantaged others, so we will look at finding a solution."

Cllr Rayner added residents still have a chance to speak out until March 27 following which he will meet with ward councillors and present three or four possible solutions and the best will then be implemented.

Cllr Kathy Newbound (Pinkneys Green), said: "People are angry that their well-loved bus services have been cut. It was obvious on Monday how much residents value their bus services. Many people were offering very constructive ideas about a way forward. I really hope the council takes their views on board."