Challenges over improving bus services - operator

Herefordshire's ambitions to improve its bus services face huge challenges, not least from the state of its roads, a local operator has warned.

Simon Hayes, managing director of Forest Coaches, which is based on the Herefordshire/Shropshire border and has been operating since 2019, said that during that time he had "noticed roads in Herefordshire get steadily worse".

The difference between the county and neighbouring Powys was now so stark that passengers were jolted awake when crossing into England, stated Mr Hayes.

Herefordshire Council was asked how it plans to spend the £1.1m it is due to receive from the government to improve bus services in the county.

Mr Hayes said: "Modern cars are incredibly good at soaking up shocks from poor road surfaces. Low-floor buses are not.

"Old people must hate travelling on them."

Besides the county's potholes, unmaintained overhanging vegetation "is even more of a concern", particularly in the dark when strikes can not only cause damage to vehicles but also give drivers and passengers "the fright of their lives", he stated.

Mr Hayes also said: "You need to have more vehicles so you can bring out a spare.

"But why spend £350,000 on a new bus to have it wrecked in turn?"

Meanwhile, the managing director stated the average age of drivers in Herefordshire was about 65, "when you are more susceptible to ailments".

"More are hanging up their keys than taking them up."

Bus and coach mechanics were also thin on the ground, he said.

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service which covers councils and other public service organisations.

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