Peninsula Bus Service
One of the key issues that keeps coming up whilst talking to residents on the doorstep is that of our bus services here in Medway, particularly Arriva’s 191 service which serves our villages on the Hoo Peninsula.
Public transport in our rural communities provides a vital lifeline for those members of our community who either cannot drive or have no desire to do so. So I was glad when the Council announced its support for rural bus services in Medway – including those subsidised bus services here on the Peninsula. Further, the introduction of low- level access buses on the 191 route earlier this year has been greatly welcomed by local residents, increasing access to public transport for the elderly, disabled or less-able, and parents and relatives who have family members who rely on affordable and accessible public transport to get around.
There is, however, still some concern that services appear to be regularly delayed or cancelled. Whilst some of these matters will resolve themselves once the new dynamic bus station in Chatham opens in the near future, and there will always be unforeseeable events that will cause delays such as breakdowns, etc, I think it is important that we continue to monitor Arriva’s performance here on the Peninsula to ensure that residents receive the very best bus service available. To that end, I would be grateful for your feedback on local bus services supplied by Arriva, and where you feel improvements could be made. I am also happy to take up directly with Arriva any complaints residents may have regarding late or cancelled buses in order that we get a clearer picture of where problems may be occurring and ensure that they are addressed.
Please feel free to email me at cg.irvine@virginmedia.com with your feedback/complaints and I will make sure these are brought to Arriva’s attention.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Cllr Chris Irvine (Member for Peninsula Ward)