Residents are being asked to share their views on a proposed reduction of Kent County Council’s (KCC) Supported Bus Services.
Following the passing of KCC’s budget on Thursday 10th February, it was proposed the Supported Bus budget be reduced from April 2022 to £4.3 million, representing a decrease of £2.2 million.
KCC currently spends about £6 million a year to contract services which are not profitable for bus companies but which the council thinks are important to the communities they serve.
The proposed changes mean 48 contracts have been selected for withdrawal from the budget.
KCC’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, David Brazier, said: “In the last few months running up to our annual budget review, we have had to take some very tough decisions in order to ensure the services we have to provide by law have the funds they need.
Kent County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, David Brazier
“Bus services are crucial to many and I know some of these routes are incredibly important to the communities they serve around Kent, which is why we are so keen to hear from people who will be affected by these proposed service withdrawals.
“I would encourage anyone with a view about our plans to get in touch to help inform the way we shape our Supported Bus service going forward.”
The consultation formally opens today [24th February] and will close on 20th April.
Visit www.kent.gov.uk/bussavings to view the full list of the services proposed to be withdrawn and take part in the consultation.
For queries or requests for hard copies, email bussavings@kent.gov.uk or call 03000 421437 referencing KCC Bus Funding Reduction.
For any alternative formats, email alternativeformats@kent.gov.uk or call 03000 42 15 53 (text relay service number 18001 03000 42 15 53).
Both phone numbers go to answer machines, which are monitored during office hours.
ENDS
For more information contact Ellis Stephenson – ellis.stephenson@kent.gov.uk – in the KCC press office