l I WOULD be interested in hearing the response of those responsible for the new, joint bus ticketing initiative in Oxford to the following queries: l There can now be 20-minute gaps waiting for a number five bus to the railway station, mid mornings and afternoons on weekdays; how is this maintaining, let alone improving the service, which previously had buses running every six minutes or so?
l If the ‘next bus due’ sign shows a number five bus leaving Oxford in 18 minutes, just after 5pm on a weekday, is that a reduction in service?
l Why have bus stops for numbers one and five buses been moved on St Aldate’s?
The length of this queue is merging into, and beyond, the adjacent Park & Ride stop, creating confusion.
l Why are day returns not included in this initiative? Is this just down to the restriction of using smart card systems?
Given the high numbers of visitors and summer students, delays and overcrowding still exist on Cowley Road routes. Parents with pushchairs and wheelchair users using day returns may also be restricted as access on the two companies’ buses vary.
l Why is there no real time bus information on some stops, such as the Clive Road stop in Oxford Road?
Information there would help people trying to get to the railway station. It would also help when planning to get an Oxford Bus Company vehicle, which I believe are smoother and more comfortable than Stagecoach’s.
In principle, I am in favour of joint ticketing, as long as there really is no deterioration in service or options, but I remain unconvinced that this is happening at present.
HILARY GRIME Cowley Oxford
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