I REFER to the announcement in the Bolton Evening News under the heading "Village to be left without bus links".
When our hourly bus service First Bus 502 was taken from us in January 2003, it was replaced by a 526 service. However, it soon became apparent that we would be very fortunate if this First Bus service were retained - and our fears have been confirmed.
When leaving Barrow Bridge, the First Bus 526 goes along Moss Bank Way, turns left up to Smithills Dean terminus, back down Smithills Dean Road to Halliwell Road, then to Bolton. This route is already served by a 526 Blue Bus.
On the return trip to Barrow Bridge, the First Bus travels up Halliwell Road to Smithills terminus, back down Smithills Dean Road, along Moss Bank Way to Barrow Bridge!
The 502 and 501 took the same route from town via Vernon Street/Church Road to Captains Clough Road. The latter 502 was not solely for Barrow Bridge, but served the same route as the 501 up to Captains Clough.
I have asked various bus drivers why the 502 was taken off - none can say!
It would appear that the 501, which states "every 10 minutes", could clearly spare one each hour to be diverted as 502 to Barrow Bridge to help those of us who are to be left without a bus service.
As for "Transport chiefs hope another bus company will take over the route and have agreed to put the route out to tender" - no comment.
Barrow Bridge resident
(Name and address supplied)
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