Councillors have welcomed proposed changes to Stagecoach bus services in Coventry which will improve accessibility for people in Allesley Green. The number 82 bus service, which connects Solihull to Coventry city centre, currently travels along Holyhead Road, into Allesley Village and then onto the A45. From September, the route will be amended so that it also calls into Woodridge Avenue in Allesley Green.
The changes follow a request from, Woodlands Ward Councillor, Gary Ridley, after a suggestion was made at the Allesley Green Residents Association. Many residents want to use the service, but elderly and vulnerable residents in particular, said they didn’t want to cross the A45 to catch it.
The decision was made by Transport for West Midlands after consultation with Stagecoach, who operate the service under subsidy. As part of the contract TfWM specify key details such as the route and timetable. They are required to give 70 days’ notice of any changes and will soon specify an exact date for the changes.
Woodlands Ward is also represented by Cllr Julia Lepoidevin and Cllr Peter Male who are also in full support of these proposals.
Commenting on the decision Cllr Gary Ridley said: “I’m very grateful to Transport for West Midlands. They’ve listened to residents and passengers We’ve got an outcome that will really work for the people of Allesley Green. This will encourage more people to ditch the car and create opportunities for older and more vulnerable people to be more independent, and travel further afield. It also shows the benefits of partnership working and being active in the community. Many people will benefit from this, and it all came from an idea at a resident’s meeting.”
Cllr Julia Lepoidevin said: “This is great news for residents in Allesley Green. Public transport has a clear role to play in promoting independent living for older people. So, I’m really pleased that TfWM and Stagecoach have responded favourably to this request.”
Cllr Peter Male said: “This has been a longstanding issue for residents in Allesley Green so I’m really pleased TfWM and Stagecoach have finally been able to make this change. I hope that lots more people are now able to access, and enjoy, this service.”
