Community transport could replace 745 bus service in Clun

From September, the 745 that operates between Pontesbury, Bishop’s Castle, Clun, Craven Arms and Ludlow will come to an end.

The service currently operates on Mondays and Fridays and has been supported by Shropshire Council since the Covid-19 pandemic using central government revenue funding.

However, the unitary authority said the service would be withdrawn due to rising operating costs.

“We recognise that this service has provided an important link for some of our rural communities, and we do not take this decision lightly,” said Councillor Rob Wilson, cabinet member for transport and regeneration.

“However, the cost of maintaining the service has increased significantly while passenger numbers remain very low, meaning it is no longer sustainable to continue funding it in its current form at over £60 per passenger per journey.”

The loss will be particularly hard hit in Clun, which only has one bus service.

“I use it every Monday and Friday to go to Ludlow to just get out and go shopping,” said Lou Hambley.

“Without that, I don’t know what I’m going to do, I will have to move. I can’t stay in a place where I can’t get out.”

A “save our bus” sign has been placed on the bus shelter off the high street, with many people in the town signing a petition to keep the service.

“It’s a rural bus, people rely on it,” said Deborah Fox.

“It will have a huge impact if it’s not here and will be isolated.”

However, Councillor Ruth Houghton, who represents Bishop’s Castle, believes that alternative provision is in the pipeline.

“My understanding, at the moment, is that a community transport service , using employed drivers, will be available Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, leaving Bishop’s Castle at around 9am,” she said.

“Whilst I am not sure of the  exact  departure and arrival times yet,  it is very  likely that there will be more time available for passengers in Ludlow.

“Bus passes will be able to be used and the fare cap, currently £3, will apply.”