The future of Fowey Town Bus was recently in doubt after Cornwall Council announced it would no longer qualify for the Concessionary Bus Fares. This was the result of the Council reallocating the service as a tourist service in order to save money.
Steve Double, Conservative Parliamentary Candidate for St Austell and Newquay, recently chaired a meeting of over 80 local residents who were concerned about the loss of this important service. Fowey businesses also made clear how vital this link is to the local economy, especially in the winter months.
As a result of the meeting Steve started a petition for local residents and visitors to register their support for the bus. He also spoke to Cornwall Council and the bus operator, Julie Yeo, to find a way to maintain the service. As a result, a way forward has been identified. This will enable the service for local residents to continue to qualify for the Concessionary Bus Subsidy.
Steve commented, 'Cornwall Council's decision to change the way the Fowey Town Bus is funded upset a lot of local people. I have been contacted by many concerned residents, and this, combined with the well attended public meeting, highlights the bus as an important issue for Fowey.
I am delighted that we have managed to find an answer to this issue which will mean this essential service is maintained for local residents. I believe this is an example of local people working together to achieve the right outcomes for their community. I am pleased to have been able to assist in achieving this outcome for the people of Fowey'.
More information can be found at http://lovefowey.net/fowey-town-bus-saved/