ISSUES surrounding a change to a local bus service have been raised in parliament, as residents’ frustrations grow.
At the end of April, it was announced that the Go Cornwall Bus number 12 service would be undergoing some adjustments. The route services towns across North Cornwall, including Bude and Launceston, with a connection into Plymouth. However, following a reshuffle of services, the route has been split into three.
The new 12 bus now runs from Plymouth to Callington, while the 76A serves Callington to Launceston, and finally the 76 runs from Launceston to Bude.
However, these changes have not received a positive reception from residents, with many concerned about the financial impact and the prospect of delays, resulting in missed connections.
Due to the route’s fragmentation, passengers are also now expected to pay three fares, instead of the single fare previously required.
Now, a number of weeks after the announcement, the issue has been raised in Parliament by the area’s MP.
Ben Maguire stood up in the House of Commons on May 15, to address the matter.
Speaking to the house, he said: “Bude in my rural North Cornwall constituency, is a town furthest away from a district hospital than almost anywhere else in the country.
“One of those hospitals is Derriford in Plymouth, more than an hour and a half away. Now the number 12 bus from Bude to Plymouth has added two changes, three busses and often three bus fares. Will the leader of the house please grant, in government time, a debate on how the government should fund the vital healthcare transport routes?”
“We also need to make sure that they’re connected and joined up with local transport. We’ve got the busses bill coming back after the recess where he may want to raise these issues then.”
As a result of the changes, hundreds of residents have put their name to a petition, calling for the route to be reinstated.
The petition explained: “This adjustment not only adds unnecessary stress and inconvenience, but it also increases travel costs, as passengers are now being charged twice for what was once a single journey. In these tough economic times, many of us cannot afford the additional expenses.
“Moreover, this change contributes to extended journey times. Many passengers are experiencing delays that result in them being late for work, causing distress and potential occupational repercussions. There is also a looming concern of being left stranded at Callington, especially during off-peak hours when connections may not be as frequent or reliable.
“Restoring the direct 12 bus route as a single continuous journey is crucial for ensuring timely and affordable transportation for residents of Bude, Launceston, and surrounding areas. “
Go Cornwall Bus have been contacted for comment.