Residents of Ringlestone are anxious about losing their only bus service to Maidstone, leaving them isolated and without transport options.
Maidstone: Residents in Ringlestone are really worried. They’re counting down the days until January 17 when they’ll lose their last bus service into town.
The number 55 bus only runs twice a day, and it’s not even enough for those who need to get to work. It’s a lifeline for many elderly folks, especially since Arriva stopped their service 18 months ago.
Lesley Munn, a regular user, says she makes about five trips a week. She’s noticed that while the bus is often used, it’s not enough to keep it running. Most passengers travel for free with bus passes, which doesn’t help the finances.
For those who can’t walk to the main road, it’s a real struggle. The alternative is a long trek to catch another bus that only runs on certain days. Plus, crossing the busy A229 is dangerous, especially for older residents.
Lesley, who’s recovering from a hip replacement, worries about her neighbors who can’t make that walk. The footbridge is steep and slippery, making it tough for anyone with mobility issues.
Tony and Barbara Chapman, both in their 70s, rely on the bus for shopping and doctor visits. They only found out about the service being cut through a Facebook group, and they’re worried many others don’t even know yet.
Sharon Baillie has started a petition to save the bus service, gathering signatures from concerned residents. She’s unsure who to present it to, but she knows it’s important.
Nu Venture is trying to help by diverting another bus service into the estate, but it only runs on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Residents are anxious about whether it will be enough.
Mr. Chapman recently tried the new service and found it overcrowded. He suggested that perhaps the more frequent Arriva 101 service could make a stop in Ringlestone, which would help a lot.
Council members are aware of the situation and are looking into options, but they stress that the number of passengers needs to increase to keep services running.
It’s a tough spot for everyone involved. The community is hoping for a solution that keeps them connected and safe.
