Liverpool is set to lose its only late-night bus service operating between the city and Wirral.
Stagecoach has announced that due to the fact that it is operating at a loss, the service must be scrapped from April 28th.
The news has been met with a widely negative reaction from the public.
Service ‘1’ currently operates three journeys on a Friday and Saturday night until 3am between Liverpool and Chester via Wirral, and Ellesmere Port.
This is generally the most cost-effective form of public transport for those out working or partying late.
Adwowa Montford, a frequent late night commuter, told JMU Journalism: “I don’t know what they expect us to do. I don’t drive so the bus is really my only option when I have to get back home after a long day. Taxis are too expensive especially late at night and, as a freelancer, the bus has always been the most economic option for me.”
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There are still hopes of saving the service, however, as Merseytravel has opened up a consultation service on its website until March 3rd to offer customers the opportunity to provide feedback that will then be conveyed back to the operator.
Rob Jones, Managing Director of Stagecoach Merseyside told JMU Journalism: “The consultation process offers people a valuable opportunity to share their thoughts and feedback on local services.
“We always welcome the chance to hear from our passengers and ensure we are meeting their travel needs and providing the best possible service across the region.”
There has also been an organised effort to prevent the termination of the ‘1’ service, as Bromborough and Eastham Facebook group members have been posting messages urging locals to call for it to be saved.
The ‘1’ service currently covers Liverpool, Birkenhead, Rock Ferry, New Ferry, Bromborough Cross, Eastham Bridle Road, Little Sutton, Great Sutton, Ellesmere Port, Cheshire Oaks, Bache and Chester.