Public transport campaigners have raised concerns over proposals to shorten some of London’s busiest bus routes. Transport for London is planning to alter a number of routes, including the 19, 38 and 279, in response to what it calls a “significant” fall in passenger numbers.
TfL says it has too many buses – and not enough passengers – especially in central London, according to the Standard,. but campaigners warn this will force thousands of passengers a day to catch at least two buses – at busy bus stops, such as at the Angel in Islington or in Tottenham – in order to complete their journeys.
TfL also plans to axe the 349 and to make changes to the 259 and 424 – but it may reintroduce buses on route 10, though not on its previous route along Oxford Street.
TfL plans to redirect it away from Seven Sisters Road, meaning it will terminate at Stamford Hill rather than Manor House. This would also remove a link to the Piccadilly line station at Manor House.
But TfL said the proposal “reduces duplication with other routes on Seven Sisters Road and helps to better match levels of service with passenger demand”.
Under the proposals, which are out to consultation until 23 January, the 19 would divert to Victoria after reaching Hyde Park Corner, rather than heading to Battersea bridge via Knightsbridge, Sloane Square and King’s Road.
Explaining the reason for the proposed changes, TfL said:
“Route 38 runs in two overlapping legs which no longer match the demand patterns due to a significant decrease in demand at Victoria and between Hackney and Essex Road. Route 19 is unreliable, and the busiest section is around Islington Green.”
TfL said it currently has “more buses than we need” between Hackney and Victoria. “These changes will allow us to make cost savings to ensure TfL can meet its business plan targets,” it said.
Caroline Russell, leader of the Green party on the London Assembly and an Islington councillor, said: “If you live near a Tube station you can trust it will still be there tomorrow.
“Bus routes should give the same sense of security, but when they suddenly change or are even removed, it significantly disrupts routines and makes everyday life much harder for people living or working along the route.
“While the Hopper Fare means there is no extra cost when switching buses, the proposed reduction in service frequency is what concerns me most as longer waits could discourage people from using buses altogether.”
(Picture: Yay Images)
