Glimmer of hope in battle to save bus route
CAMPAIGNERS trying to stop a Havant bus route from being axed have a glimmer of hope after the move was 'called in' by opposition councillors.
Lib Dem members on Hampshire County Council have asked the environment and transport scrutiny committee to look again at plans to reshuffle bus services in the borough, including cutting the Stagecoach 22 service completely.
The decision to axe the route was made by environment chief Councillor Mel Kendal last week, on the grounds of cost, but campaigners have welcomed a last chance to save it.
Committee member Lib Dem David Simpson said: 'I don't think enough thought has been put into it. It has all been to do with the cost and no consideration as to whether the service is needed.'
The service, which runs through Leigh Park, appeared safe last year following the success of The News Save the 22 campaign. Council chiefs stepped in to save the route but have now backtracked, saying the subsidy being poured in is too much.
The future of the 22 route, and diversion of the number 27 service will be debated by councillors at a meeting at the county headquarters in Winchester next Wednesday.
Campaigner Althea Patey said: 'We have to do what we can to save it, everybody who signed the petition and campaigned before should write to the council and turn up to the meeting. Hopefully there is a chance to reverse the decision.'
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Saturday 26 May 2012
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