There's just no stopping our bus upgrade project (From Warrington Guardian)

There's just no stopping our bus upgrade project

PUBLIC transport services in Nantwich are now seeing the benefits of a £1million-plus cash boost from local councils and a Government initiative to modernise rural bus routes.

The improvement programme, officially unveiled by Mayor Cllr Steven Roberts last week, has been led by two separate schemes to update the town's bus station and services.

The first scheme, funded by a £955,000 grant from the government's Rural Bus Challenge Kickstart initiative, has introduced seven new low-floor buses and a number of modern bus stops along the upgraded number-84 service between Nantwich and Chester.

The second scheme has seen Crewe and Nantwich Borough Council and Cheshire County Council funding the £110,000 modernisation of Nantwich bus station.

The schemes have also included a remodelled central island and bus stops adjacent to Nantwich's council office, new facilities to provide easier access for people with disabilities, new illuminated bus shelters and improved timetable information.

Cllr Barrie Hardern, Cheshire County Council chairman, said: "These two separate schemes are extremely important not just for the residents of Nantwich but all passengers who use the number-84 bus service.

"The new buses and timetable will make public transport an attractive option on this route, and the changes made to Nantwich bus station slot into this concept because the bus station is more passenger friendly."

Cllr Roberts added: "This new facility and the investment in the bus fleet are very real evidence of confidence in the area.

"All the partners have worked together to create a quality public transport service for residents and visitors.

"Improvements like this don't come about overnight.

"It takes co-operation and cash, and I hope that we will be able to look forward to more schemes that meet the transport needs of the people of Crewe and Nantwich."

amorrison@guardiangrp.co.uk