Help us save ‘vital service’

Mar 22 2008 by Steve Catchpool, Hudd Sat

A DENBY Dale councillor has hailed the success of the district’s Community Transport Scheme – but says it is in urgent need of financial help.

Ward representative on Kirklees Council Clr Maggie Blanshard said:”The scheme has made astonishing progress in less than 18 months. The three yellow buses operate both a group hire scheme and a ‘Ring-and-Ride’ service.

Writing in the community newspaper Denby Dale Rose Clr Blanshard says: “The Group Hire service is available to local, charitable and non-profit-making groups who register for the scheme. It is used by 58 groups to date, including local schools.

“Ring-and-Ride provides door-to-door transport for people who cannot access ordinary public transport. it has 160 members but at the moment operates a restricted service owing to lack of funding.

“The Community Transport Scheme now needs further support if it is to continue and develop. We are delighted that this year’s Labour budget proposals for Kirklees Council include funding to help expand the service.

“Community Transport can be an important part of public transport in our villages – especially when the Government’s new Local Transport Bill comes into force,” Clr Blanshard added.