More than 750 residents have signed a petition calling for significant improvements to the 97/98 bus service that connects Churchdown and Innsworth with Cheltenham and Gloucester.
The petition, presented at Shire Hall on March 25, urges Stagecoach to conduct a thorough review of the service and address ongoing reliability issues that have left passengers frustrated.
Gloucestershire County Councillor Stewart Dove, representing Churchdown and Innsworth, collaborated with Sarah Hands, Tewkesbury Borough Council representative for Innsworth and Highnam at Shire Hall, to launch the petition. They emphasize that the community deserves a dependable service tailored to its needs, with particular focus on efficient connections to Cheltenham.
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“We are increasingly concerned about the deteriorating state of our local public transport, especially the 97/98 Stagecoach bus route,” the Liberal Democrat councillors stated in the petition.
“The reliability of this essential service has seriously declined, causing major inconvenience, particularly for morning journeys to school and work. Too often, buses fail to arrive on time, leaving children and commuters stranded.
“In September 2023, route changes to and from Cheltenham significantly increased journey times, adding to daily commuter frustration. These alterations were implemented without prior community consultation.
“A reliable transportation system is vital for everyone, and right now, it’s failing our community.”
The petition stresses that immediate action is needed.
“Improving the 97/98 bus service will ensure it meets the community’s travel needs reliably, providing peace of mind to schoolchildren, workers, and essential travellers alike,” it concludes.
Stagecoach has been contacted for comment.