Labour Mayor for Peterborough and Cambridgeshire, Dr Nik Johnson, has expressed anger and disappointment at the decision by Stagecoach to cut bus services in the area.

The 23, 24 and 29 are being withdrawn in Peterborough on 30 October, with further routes being affected across the area including the 11/X11, 12, 18, 25, 39, 915, V1, V2, V3, V4, V5, 22, 30, 35, and 66. The Combined Authority is now looking at how it can protect services. And calling for bus reforms to ensure the public are protected and have a say over local services.

Mayor Dr Nik Johnson, commented:

“It is unacceptable that despite getting a six month bus grant Stagecoach are still planning to reduce these vulnerable rural routes.  The timing of this news couldn’t come at a worse time.  It is of utmost importance to the Combined Authority that our rural bus networks are protected. They are vital for so many of our residents across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, in addressing isolation, enabling inclusion and supporting access to key services. We are appalled that Stagecoach are pressing ahead with such severe changes to the network whilst continuing to accept the funding from the government that is designed to protect it. 

With this in mind, I have asked officers to prepare to take these threatened routes back out to the market. I have also asked that we urgently review and refresh the business case for franchising the bus system in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. 

We will work closely with Stagecoach and all our bus operators to ensure that we can continue to deliver the buses that our residents depend on.”