First Bus can not afford to ignore passengers

9.19.00am BST (GMT +0100) Sat 26th Sep 2009

First Bus can not afford to ignore its passengers, as it is increasingly vulnerable to new competition, according to Paul Harrod, Liberal Democrat Prospective MP for Bristol North West.

Many residents have complained about First ignoring responses to consultations, and pressing ahead with route cuts or route changes.

"A recent example was their proposed changes to the 24/25 bus route which effectively cuts off residents of Dovercourt road and Downend road in Lockleaze, many of whom are elderly or have no other means of transportation." said Paul Harrod

"The changes have come about following an incredibly poor consultation process that First Bus refused to extend, despite strong protests from Lockleaze councillors and Lockleaze Voice.

"This is sadly typical of First Bus' attitude to passenger consultation, as we have seen over and over again.

"However with rising competition from the likes of Wessex Connect, and other potential providers of bus services in Bristol, First needs to sharpen up its act.

"What Bristol needs above all is a range of bus providers, in fair and open competition with each other, which would lead to greater choice for passengers and a significant increase in overall bus numbers.

"Other major cities such as Manchester and Leeds have it, and it is what we need in Bristol too."