PASSENGERS will not be deterred from catching their usual bus because of timetable changes, according to a transport watchdog.

On Sunday, the frequency of buses running through Oxford was reduced to cope with congestion.

Key routes are affected, with 1 and 5 serving Cowley and Blackbird Leys, and the 8 and 9 going to Headington.

But Hugh Jaeger, spokesman for the Oxford branch of Bus Users UK, said reductions in frequency for some services would not lead to passengers seeking alternative ways of getting to work.

He added: “While there has been a slight reduction in frequency for some services, the idea is that reliability will be improved so I can’t see this affecting passenger numbers.

“Passengers are well served by two bus companies and that is going to continue, even if passengers have to wait a minute or two longer between services.”

Oxford Bus Company and Stagecoach have worked together to adjust timetables.

OBC managing director Phil Southall said: “So far the revised timetable has operated well. The changes for key coordinated City services were introduced to tackle worsened congestion in Oxford.

“The same number of vehicles are in operation, but the frequency has been reduced.

“Passengers will experience an improvement in the overall reliability.”

Roadworks have cause major delays in Botley Road, Frideswide Square and during the Access to Headington project.

Transport expert Mr Jaeger said he hoped that a report by transport consultants Phil Jones Associates would put forward a transport solution for the city centre which allowed buses to use Queen Street and Cornmarket Street.

A number of options have been outlined and are being considered.

The county council has said it will continue to work closely with the bus companies.