Poole bus service subsidy cuts put out to consultation

Eleven subsidised bus routes in Dorset could be reduced or cut under proposals to save up to £150,000 next year.

Borough of Poole council has launched a consultation on the the plan to reduce the bus subsidy budget in 2015/16.

The council said the routes being considered operated mainly in the daytime and included some services to primary schools.

It said about £750,000 was spent on bus subsidies during 2013/14 after about £100,000 of "efficiency savings".

Councillor Ian Potter, cabinet member for transportation, said the council was facing "unprecedented" budget cuts, which meant they had to make "difficult decisions".

He said: "Following discussions with the bus companies and councillors, the proposed routes have been identified for reduction or withdrawal.

"We appreciate the importance of the bus service to many local residents.

"We will be liaising directly with schools and other community groups that may be affected, but we would really encourage all bus users to take part in this survey and give us their views."

The proposals affect routes 15, 20, 32, 26, 50 (Monday to Saturday), 50 (Sunday), 52, 128, 445, 462, 744.

The consultation runs until 5 December.