New operator for bus service targeted by vandals

The number 19 was one of several services disrupted by anti-social behaviour in Blakenall, Walsall

A bus service disrupted by brick-throwing vandals is set to be fully restored with a new operator.

The number 19 Walsall-to-Bloxwich service, which serves the Blakenall estate, was one of several running on a limited timetable or being diverted as a result of anti-social behaviour.

The vandalism caused huge disruption to residents who rely on public transport, ward councillor Pete Smith said.

Mr Smith condemned the minority of troublemakers who were "holding the community to ransom".

But now from Sunday, Willenhall-based Carolean Coaches will take over the service.

Chaserider currently operates the number 19, which stops running at 15:00 GMT each day, will pull out of the route on Saturday.

From Sunday, Carolean will extend the service until to 16:30 and, as long as there are no more anti-social incidents, it plans to reinstate a full service later this month.

Mr Smith said: "I would like to thank all those who have played a part in seeking this resumption of services, which was seen as collective punishment on all bus users.

“We must all play our part as citizens to put a stop to the unacceptable behaviour which caused services to be curtailed.”

A spokesperson for Transport for West Midlands said: "The new operator is also looking to reinstate some of those services temporarily suspended – dependent on there being no further incidents of anti-social behaviour.

"Passengers will be updated on this and information posted at local bus stops. We would like to thank the community for the patience."

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service which covers councils and other public service organisations.

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