Greens Call for Bus Service Improvements

23rd April 2008

The Green Party have called for improvements to the number 22 bus service after a survey found that most passengers thought it was expensive and many also found it unreliable, discouraging many passengers from using it.The No. 22, which once ran through Sharrow to the Northern General but now terminates at Wybourn, is the only service on much of its route. Over 80 passengers were interviewed at stops on Moorfoot and Church St and on the buses, travelling in both directions.

Nearly all those interviewed said that they used they service at least twice a week. However, nearly half found it "unreliable" or "very unreliable", and four out of ten said that this could put them off using it. Out of those who paid for their travel, nearly 2/3 said it was "expensive" or "very expensive".

Passengers also commented on late running - some had waited up to 45 minutes for the bus to turn up, and 20 minutes was common. They also complained that in the evening there is only one bus an hour.

Green Party Transport Spokesperson Rob Murphy said "This survey supports the argument that cheaper, more reliable bus services would increase the number of passengers and start to provide a realistic alternative to car travel. Several of the people surveyed said that they had no alternative means of travel, and would therefore have to use the 22 bus whatever the cost or unreliability. This included elderly and disabled passengers who could not walk to a different bus route.

"People want and need reliable, affordable buses on vital routes. We are calling for the Government to bring in Quality Bus Contracts that will oblige bus companies to provide better services throughout the city, and for the 22 service from Sharrow to the Northern General to be reinstated."

Survey breakdown

• 74/81, or 91%, of users use the No 22 bus at least twice a week
• 39/82, or 47%, found the service "unreliable" or "very unreliable"
• 24/56, or 43%, are discouraged from using it because of its unreliability
• 36/55, or 65%, of passengers who pay for their travel said the service was "expensive" or "very expensive"
• 17/54, or 31%, are discouraged from using it by the cost