A Watford bus service is being cut just months after it was introduced.
The 328 route between Abbots Langley and the Mount Vernon Hospital in Batchworth Heath will be withdrawn from June 2, according to the Hertfordshire Intalink website.
The Arriva service, launched in November, replaced the 9 and 508 buses, as well as the 10 route which was combined with the 20 between Abbots Langley/Hemel Hempstead and the Holywell Estate.
The 328 currently carries residents between both suburbs through the centre of Watford with buses running 30 minutes apart in the busiest period.
- Free parking rules branded 'ridiculous' after residents receive tickets
- Watford Arriva services axed and new routes created
It is not clear why it is being cut, although the timetable is set to be revised from April 14 to “improve punctuality” by adding more off-peak journeys and revising the early morning schedule to "improve schoolchildren travel to school", according to Intalink.
The website states that a replacement service is being "investigated", although it is not clear how or when this could be introduced.
Residents reacted angrily to the news, as one labelled it “ridiculous” while another commented: “So how are people expected to get to work. This is crazy world is going to end at this rate.”
Labour's transport spokesman to Hertfordshire County Council Asif Khan said: "Losing the 328 to Mount Vernon Hospital hits hard; it’s not just a bus route, it’s a lifeline for many residents.
"We urgently need the council to step up and find a fix with a replacement service. Right now, how we’re running buses in Watford and Hertfordshire isn’t working for the people who need them most.
"It’s about time we took control back, like Labour has announced, making sure our buses really serve our community. We’ve got to do better – for everyone’s sake.'"
Arriva has been contacted for comment.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel