Fewer Passengers, But _ £29,738 Surplus nESPITE serious setbacks throeighout
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the year, Rotherham Transport Department made a net surplus of' £29,738 in the year ended March 31 last. fhe number of passengers declined by 2.49m., and in the past' two years more than 4m. passengers -have been lost. Last year's total figure of 56.76m. was the lowest in 10 years.
In his annual report, Mr. I. 0. Fisher, general manager, says that any further increase in the number of private cars will aggravate congestion, particularly in the centre. of Rotherham. He denies that bus stops are the main cause. He says that congestion occurs generally in places other than at bus stops.
.1n the past few years the department had helped to reduce congestion by substituting double-deckers for singledeckers. If single-deckers were now operated in, the same proportion as 10 years ago. 57 more vehicles would be required. all of which would be engaged during peak periods.
"Uncontrolled pedestrian crossings and the indiscriminate parking of cars are, in my opinion, a greater evil than bus stands," he says. Although total revenue rose by 1.37 per cent., and for the first time topped £800,000, it fell short of expectations Operating expenditure rose by 5.17 per cent. . . • • .
As a result of recognizing depreciation as a legitimate charge on trading and fixing fares accordingly, the department has been able during the year to meet capital expenditure of £34,035 for the renewal of vehicles.
" There seems to be a big change looming in industry. generally; no doubt if it matures it will bring into the passenger industry. serious problems which will have to be resolved," Mr. Fisher concludes.
[See "Profit and Loss," page 159.1