Communities in the north of Newcastle could be left without a bus service in a matter of months unless new funding is guaranteed, councillors fear.
The city’s Liberal Democrats have condemned a “catastrophic reduction in the availability of public transport”, after it was announced that a key route would be axed. Arriva confirmed recently that it would be scrapping the 46 and 46A services, which run between the city centre and the Great Park, from October 30.
While Tyne and Wear Metro operator Nexus has stepped in to save the route with public money, letting an emergency contract for a new X46 service, that is only a short-term measure guaranteed until next March. Parklands ward councillor Christine Morrissey has called for its permanent future to be secured, but fears that expected Government spending cuts could threaten that and leave residents in areas like Melbury, Brunton Park and the Garden Village without a key transport link.
