Mayor Petitioned Over Bus Station Move

12.00.00am GMT Wed 29th Jan 2003

Liberal Democrats are to present the Mayor with a petition, signed by over 900 local bus users, who are opposed to plans which could see the bus station moved out of the town centre.

Under plans favoured by Better Bedford Mayor, Frank Branston, the bus station would be relocated to a site at the railway station on Ashburnham Road. This move has been continuously opposed by the Liberal Democrat group, who believe the bus station is in need of urgent improvement not relocation.

Speaking on support for the petition Cllr Michael Headley, Lib Dem group leader said:

"This is a clear message to the Mayor that local bus users don't want to see the bus station moved. I have been amazed by the level of response and support this petition received. Its not feasible or popular."

"People clearly feel very strongly about the issue, I think it would be a big mistake on the Mayor's part to ignore their opinion. Lets not forget that these are the people who actually use the towns bus services."

Deputy Group Leader, Christine McHugh, commenting on the relocation plans added:

"The place for a transport hub is not in the middle of the town's biggest traffic jam!"

The petition will be handed in at tonight's Executive committee meeting where a report on the future development of the bus station is to be discussed.