Numerous Sandwell and Walsall bus routes could be reduced or axed when a government grant ends this year.
Pressure is mounting on the West Midlands Combined Authority, who met this week to discuss cutting or amending 36 local routes.
Some of the affected routes could include:
- 26 Walsall to Blakenall
- 30 Darlaston to Bilston
- 41 Willenhall to Walsall
- 35/35A Aldrige/Leighswood to Walsall
- 54 Hamstead Village to Perry Barr
- 61 Perry Barr to WestBromwich
- 600 Queslett to Perry Barr
The cuts are blamed on the government-funded Bus Recovery Grant coming to an end, as well as less passengers, shortage of drivers and high levels of sickness.
School Bus Routes To Be Affected
National Express will also be affected and is in talks to cut 12 of its 60 bus routes by the end of the year, which will affect services to some schools.
Pete Bond, Transport for West Midlands (TFWM) director of integrated transport services, said: “Bus services are by far the most used form of public transport in the region, offer an affordable alternative to the private car and play a vital role in reducing traffic congestion, cut pollution, and assist our moves towards a net-zero carbon region.
“But there is no doubt the industry is struggling – we have sadly lost five of our smaller operators since the start of the Covid pandemic – and as a transport authority we need to target our limited resources where they can make the most difference and, using our value for money criteria, protect the taxpayer.
“It is an incredibly difficult situation, but we are pleased that by adjusting our rules we have been able to reduce the impact of the review and will be looking for ways to extend existing services or introduce alternatives to cover some areas.”
A final decision on the cuts to bus services has not yet been made.