Ingol’s 44 service is to see a route change Pic: emdjt42

Ingol is to see an extended bus service go into more of the side roads in the area.

Preston Bus has announced the route of the 44 is now to include Barry Avenue and Dunbar Road during off-peak times.

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Between 9.40am and 3pm on weekdays and all day on Saturdays the route is to be extended and service the roads off Whitby Avenue.

A spokesman for the bus firm said due to feedback from passengers, particularly elderly and disabled passengers, they were making the change.

A spokesman said: “Due to road traffic congestion in Preston City Centre, it has not been possible to divert all journeys via Dunbar Road while also maintaining a punctual service. During the week, journeys have been diverted during the middle of the day when the traffic is quieter and the longer journey can be accommodated. As the traffic on Saturdays is usually lighter, we have been able to divert all journeys via Dunbar Road.

“Usage of the new section of route will be closely monitored and passengers are very much encouraged to take advantage of the revised 44 service.”

The revised timetable comes into force on Monday 30 January.

Ingol councillor Pauline Brown said they had been campaigning to get the bus route brought back since it was cut back in April last year.

She said: “This is marvellous news. The elderly, the disabled and of course the residents of Barry Avenue will be delighted.

“It’s not just about shopping it is about social inclusion. People can now visit relatives and friends, keep doctors and other medical appointments and not be isolated because of where they live.

“My only criticism is the limitation put on the times. But I can’t grumble too much I am grateful that at last Preston Bus have seen sense and have realised that this service is a lifeline for some of the residents.”

Read more: Mobile app launches for Preston Bus tickets

How the diversion works

On journeys towards Cottam, buses will operate via the normal route to Cottam Avenue, then via Barry Avenue, Dunbar Road, Creswell Avenue, Barry Avenue, Cottam Avenue and Whitby Avenue then as normal route to Cottam Avenue.

On journeys towards the Bus Station, buses will operate via normal route to Whitby Avenue, then via Cottam Avenue, Barry Avenue, Dunbar Road, Creswell Avenue, Barry Avenue, Cottam Avenue, Tag Lane, then as normal route into Preston.

Read more: What Preston Bus said in response to Orbit petition

Do you live in the area? What do you think about the route change? Let us know in the comments below