VITAL BUS LINK AXED

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Tue 16th Oct 2007

Sandra Gidley is backing commuters following the news that the South West Trains Rail Link Bus between Romsey and Winchester is being axed after Christmas.

Commenting Local MP Sandra said;

"This is dreadful news. This bus link is critical to the people of Romsey who work or go to school in Winchester. It is also a vital service for commuters with the bus linking to direct trains to London Waterloo.

"Romsey is already poorly served by rail and bus links. This is going to force more people onto the roads or onto other busy bus routes which are less convenient because of their longer journey time. The move will also put a greater strain onto the already stretched parking facilities at Winchester station.

"South West Trains are consistently letting down local people. This decision follows the hike in off peak rail fares early this year.

"There has been no consultation with the public and the bottom line is that having being re-awarded the rail franchise South West Trains now seem hell bent on axing services. I shall be double checking with Ministers that the terms of their franchise allow them to do this.

"I will also be seeking a meeting with South West Trains immediately to discuss this, and see if we can save this essential service."