Last few days to have your say on the cancellation of subsidised bus services in Preston.

Lancashire County Council (LCC) are asking residents for their opinion on proposed withdrawal of subsidies for certain local bus routes in the evenings and weekends.

Reductions in local government budgets are making leaders consider tough choices about where to make savings. LCC has already committed to saving over £200 million by 31 March 2014.

Unfortunatly, the government is asking for further estimated savings of £300m between 2014 and 2018. The only way these huge savings can be achived is looking at reducing costs and reshaping the delivery of existing services.

Proposals for any area where savings can be made will be taken forward and discussed at a full council Cabinet meeting in February 2014.

Currently being discussed is the slashing of money LCC spends supporting bus services around the county. The plan is to withdraw the funding to subsidise bus services during the evenings and on Sundays.

It may not be common knowledge but LCC spends around £8 million each year subsidising bus travel. Proposals are they would maintain the majority of that spending, but identfiying savings of £1.82m next year and £2m a year after by only focusing on essential daytime routes.

However, LCC say in the proposal that they will make an additional £500,000 investment in community transport to make sure that support is focused on those with the greatest need.

The budget proposals are now being discussed before any final decision is made. LCC would like to hear your comments on their proposals and those comments will help shape the final report presented to full council in February 2014.

If you want to preserve existing bus services in and around Preston express your views now. The survey ends on 17 January 2014.

The proposed local services affected by the withdrawal of subsidies during evenings and weekends from May 2014 are numbers 4, 12A, 14. 40, 68, 75, 80, 109, 113, 114, 150, 152, 280, X80.

The full list of services, routes and times impacted by the proposed changes in the Preston area can be found HERE or see our breakdown of services here.

How to take part or for more information have a look HERE

Email: lcc.bus.services@lancashire.gov.uk

Or contact: Bus & Supported Transport Manager
Lancashire County Council
Room D3, PO Box 100
County Hall, Preston
PR1 0LD

Are you worried about the cancellation of services? Will the changes effect you personally? Let us know in the comments below