KEETCH SEEKS TO MOVE BUS STOP

9.00.00am GMT Fri 9th Jan 2004

Hereford's MP Paul Keetch is asking the First Bus Company to move its bus stop in Widemarsh Street and provide a shelter for waiting passengers. Mr Keetch and Belmont Ward Councillor John Newman spoken to passengers this morning (Friday) as rain started. The bus stop is located in one of the narrowest part of the street, often causing traffic queues behind buses blocking the road and backing up to the ring road.

"This must be one of the most inappropriate places for a bus stop in the City centre", said Mr Keetch.

"My office is just along the road from it and I witness people waiting in all weathers for a bus, without shelter being available when it is wet. When the buses arrive, often in pairs, they frequently block Widemarsh Street causing traffic to build up back to the Farmers Club.

Some drivers are so frustrated by the frequent blocking that they have started mounting the pavements in order to get through. This is going to cause a fatal accident one day if the stop is not moved to a more reasonable location. The move should ensure the traffic flow improves through the city centre."

Councillor John Newman represents Belmont ward on the City and Unitary Councils. Many of his constituents catch their buses from Widemarsh Street and he has been inundated with complaints.

"Many residents south of the river use buses and we should be encouraging that, but this bus stop is clearly putting people off using the buses", said Councillor Newman.

"I can't see why the stop can't go back to Tescos on Newmarket Roundabout, or back behind Maylord Orchards where some shelters could be erected. That would make much more sense rather than making people wait in the rain and blocking traffic in Widemarsh Street." Councillor Newman added.

Mr Keetch and Councillor Newman will be contacting First Buses and Herefordshire Council to see if the bus stop can be relocated.