Ribble Stand Firm Over Trial Service
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THE circular bus route covering Carlisle's Harraby Estate, which is being given a three months' trial by Ribble Motor Services. Ltd., is proving unpopular with residents. The original two-way service was withdrawn 'in October after representations to the Northern Traffic Commissioners by Carlisle Corporation (The Commercial Motor, October 3).
Last week a public meeting was called by Harraby Community Association, and Ribble's position was explained by Mr. A. Farish, Carlisle area superintendent. He said the company did not like the present route, but they had agreed to give it a trial with the same number of buses as was operated previously.
In order to do this, the frequency had had to be reduced from a 15-minute service to a half-hourly service. To run a 15-minute circular service would mean an exti-a. £18,000 a year in operational costs, and three new buses would be required, costing another £18,000. Fares would have to be increased by 3d. to cover the extra expense, he stated.
Most of the residents appeared to be in favour of the new route, but criticized the frequency reduction. One man claimed that it was scandalous that they should have to have the worst bus service in the country.
To this. Mr. Farish replied: "The only way we can increase the frequency is by returning to the old route."