Uttlesford campaigners protest plans to scrap buses

Families and campaigners in Audley End, Saffron Walden, Radwinter and other parts of North Essex have raised serious concerns about the future of bus services, as Essex County Council considers withdrawing its funding.

The county council provides cash to support 41 bus services across the county. More than 20 services could be affected, with some cut and others scrapped.

This includes services across the whole of Essex.

Ailish Jeffers, from Saffron Walden, said: "Cutting these buses will strand people from work, increase costs for households, push more cars onto already congested roads, worsen parking pressure and fees, and make surrounding villages no-go areas for people who can’t drive.

“Investing in buses does the opposite; it reduces traffic, reduces pressure on parking, protects our roads from further wear, and keeps communities connected.

"In one of the wealthiest districts in the country – Kemi’s constituency – reliable daytime bus services should not be an impossible dream."

A previous public consultation drew 690 responses, with 682 residents calling for the services to be retained.

The county council says it spends around £11 million of taxpayers’ money on these services each year.

Earlier this year it was announced that Essex County Council has secured more than £68 million to support and improve local bus services across the county over the coming years.

Residents from the village of Radwinter also fear the impact of losing the buses.

Christina Pipe uses the 320/321 service "most days" and said: "It would take away my freedom of choice, to be able to catch up with friends, to meet grandchildren, to visit family.

"Having to rely on a lift would mean I’d have to rely on others and their times.

"This bus is a lifeline for so many people living on this route. For me, it’s freedom, yes, my husband drives, but for how long, I’m not sure. To not have a bus is unthinkable, and for me, it will feel like I’m a prisoner in my own home.”

Mark Platt, councillor responsible for highways, maintenance and sustainable transport, said the council "absolutely recognises" the importance of local bus services.

He added: "However, we also have a responsibility to ensure we provide value for money to Essex taxpayers.

"To this end council-funded bus services are kept under regular review based on usage and value for money, according to our Local Bus Services Priority Policy.

"No final decisions have been made as we review the results of the consultation."