500 signatures reached
To: Essex District Council
Save the 505 Chingford to Harlow bus service
Please ensure that the 505 bus route from Chingford to Harlow remains operational, with its current or increased level of service, from 9th May 2015.
Why is this important?
The 505 bus service is under threat on the grounds of running at a loss and being underused. Public transport is a public service - financial viability shouldn't be a consideration. Epping Forests' bus services are already few on the ground but are vital for the many residents who don't drive, the elderly, disabled people, students and the low waged/unwaged. We need more services, not fewer.
The 505 service is currently operated by Arriva and Network Harlow. Arriva made £373 million profit in 2013. If they are unwilling to continue providing the service Essex County Council needs to find an alternative company to run the route, with subsidies if necessary, or set up a not-for-profit operator to take it over.
The Epping Forest Guardian covered the situation here: http://www.eppingforestguardian.co.uk/news/waltham_forest/11858552.Decision_to_scrap__life_line__bus_service_criticised/
The 505 service is currently operated by Arriva and Network Harlow. Arriva made £373 million profit in 2013. If they are unwilling to continue providing the service Essex County Council needs to find an alternative company to run the route, with subsidies if necessary, or set up a not-for-profit operator to take it over.
The Epping Forest Guardian covered the situation here: http://www.eppingforestguardian.co.uk/news/waltham_forest/11858552.Decision_to_scrap__life_line__bus_service_criticised/
