Bus service 'not fit for purpose', says MP

Selby's Labour MP Keir Mather

A North Yorkshire MP has accused bus company Arriva of being "not fit for purpose", saying the bus network in his constituency is "broken".

Labour's Keir Mather spoke out after passengers who attend a recent forum said improvements to services in the Selby area suggested at the meeting had been ignored.

Mr Mather said the company appeared either "unwilling or unable to deliver simple changes".

A spokesperson for Arriva said the firm was working with North Yorkshire Council to identify funding opportunities to pay for improvements.

Mr Mather said that each week his email inbox was full of messages from constituents who are frustrated by "unreliable" buses.

“At present, it seems Arriva’s management are either unwilling or unable to deliver simple changes which would drive up usage and increase connectivity," he said.

"It is time they listened to local people and set out a positive vision for improving our network."

The MP also criticised Arriva for paying bus drivers in Selby a lower wage than those in Castleford, though the firm said it had confirmed a pay rise for its Selby drivers.

'Not Convenient'

Russell Dodgson at Selby bus station

Russell Dodgson, who was waiting at Selby bus station for a bus to Goole, said he was taking his first trip on a bus in 10 years after deciding to give up driving and switch to public transport.

"I agree with the MP," he said.

"To come from Goole, they are only every hour, and to get back, they're only every hour.

"It's not really convenient. I had to set off at nine o'clock for an eleven o'clock interview. If I get the job, I want to get here in time to start work, and get home after I finish.

"Not having to wait about for 45 minutes either way."

Brodie Graham at Selby bus station

Brodie Graham, who studies at Selby College was also waiting for a bus to make the 12-mile journey back to Goole.

He said he would welcome extra services, as he had to rely on the hourly bus back to Goole, or the twice-daily student service laid on by the college.

He added: "The buses are quite important. Sometimes my mum can't come and pick me up, and I can't drive yet."

An Arriva spokeswoman said conversations would continue with North Yorkshire Council.

She added: "We have been in discussions with them about some of the service improvements that were raised within the meeting."