Date received: 09 September 2022
Signatories received: 1187
Name of petioner: Mrs P Krupski
Petition response:
Thank you for your petition concerning the 406 Uttoxeter Town Circular bus service.
This service was provided on a commercial basis by the operator Midland Classic, now Diamond Bus, meaning that it did not receive any subsidy. All bus services in the area suffered a dramatic drop in patronage during the pandemic. Unfortunately, passenger numbers have still not returned to their previous levels. In particular, concessionary pass usage – which the 406 was heavily reliant on – remains low. At the same time, there has been significant inflation in operating costs. Combined with low passenger numbers, the service had ceased to be commercially sustainable.
The County Council have made available funding for a number of bus services for a 12 month period, utilising Department for Transport grant funds. The 406 will now benefit from 12 months financial support to enable it to continue operating and grow back patronage. In that time we urge all residents, and in particular concessionary pass holders to return to using the service to help rebuild it as a sustainable bus route.
I hope that this provides the assurance that you are seeking about the continued operation of the 406 service.