Published Article

HeadlineProposed Hackney bus cuts threaten London’s vulnerable, say campaigners

Short HeadlineProposed Hackney bus cuts 'threaten vulnerable'

StandfirstThe plans would include the axing of the 48 route, connecting Walthamstow to London Bridge through Hackney.

Campaigners in Hackney are concerned proposed changes to bus schedules will affect those on low incomes and with disabilities the most.

A consultation period on proposed changes to routes in Hackney comes to a close tomorrow.

The most eye-catching of the current plans is the abolition of the iconic 48 route into central London.

Andrew Boli, Vice-Chair of the London Campaign for Better Transport says for many people “buses are the only form of transport they can afford.”

“If the 48 is cancelled, so for many the only other route into central London will be on the more expensive Overground.”

People on the streets are worried for their fellow residents. One woman told City News she knew in her neighbour’s case, buses were the only way they could get around.

Mr Boli also expressed concern for those with disabilities. Buses, he said, “are the most accessible means of public transport, especially for those with conditions like anxiety.”

Transport for London has defended the proposed changes.

Geoff Hobbs, Director of Public Transport Service Planning at TfL told City News: “These changes, if implemented, would ensure that we are providing the right number of buses, in the right place at the right time.

“They will also enable an increase in bus mileage in outer London.”

The worry for campaigners remains that this could be the start of a wider London trend.