A neighbour has complained that she and others are forced to run across the road following the ‘deterioration’ of their bus service into and out of Reading town centre.
A neighbour has raised concerns about the bus service into Reading town centre, claiming residents are now forced to dash across the road due to its decline.
The route 10 bus used to provide a daily link between the town centre and Kennet Island, which has around 1,300 properties and several small businesses.
Changes made by Reading Buses in September added a stop at the Royal Berkshire Hospital but reduced the frequency of the route and eliminated Sunday services.
Shuet Han Tsui and Breege Brennan, owners of Fidget & Bob Cafe at Merrick House, highlighted these issues at the Reading Borough Council meeting on October 14.
Ms Han Tsui said, “The Number 10 was a reliable link for commuters and residents. The revised timetable represents a serious decline in service quality.” She noted that the changes have reduced customer numbers at their café and increased social isolation for those reliant on public transport, particularly older and disabled residents.
She added that safety concerns are rising as more people rush across the A33 to catch the bus. "Connecting to the Royal Berkshire Hospital is important, but not at the cost of a usable service for Kennet Island,” she stated.
John Ennis, the transport councillor, responded, explaining that Reading Buses adjusts routes based on financial viability, and the council is in regular contact with the company. He mentioned that the next service changes are expected in January.
Ms Han Tsui then asked about the social impact of these changes. Cllr Ennis confirmed that he and Whitley Labour councillors met with the CEO of Reading Buses to discuss the situation and potential adjustments.
He reassured residents, saying, “Your councillors are lobbying hard to restore the bus service to Kennet Island.”
James Aldridge, Local Democracy Reporter
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