Mixed views on buses

Jan 19 2008 by Barry Gibson, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

COUNCILLORS have given a new bus service a mixed response.

Metro Local minibuses began running in parts of Kirklees last year.

The routes are designed to fill gaps in the public transport system by linking neighbourhoods with GPs, community centres and supermarkets.

Clr Andrew Pinnock, who represents Cleckheaton on Kirklees, is pleased with the service in the town.

He said: “I’m delighted. I’ve had a lot of good feedback.”

But Clr Dave Sheard, of Heckmondwike, said: “After we put on Metro Local buses Arriva took services off. So people sometimes have to catch two buses rather than one to get to Dewsbury District Hospital.

“Arriva seem to have done it for spite.’’

An Arriva spokesman told Clr Sheard the company would look into the matter.