Residents in York Fume Over Oversized Electric Buses
Residents of York are expressing their frustration after the introduction of new electric buses has led to significant disruptions in local transport. The issue stems from the fact that these newly acquired single-decker buses are too tall to pass under a railway bridge on Leeman Road, forcing the city’s number 10 bus service to be diverted. This oversight has left many locals unable to use their standard bus route, sparking outrage and confusion.
A Green Initiative Gone Awry
The electric buses are part of a broader initiative valued at over £100 million, aimed at promoting greener transport solutions by First York, a branch of First Bus. Marketed as "quiet, green, and stylish," the buses were intended to enhance the public transport experience. However, despite their eco-friendly credentials, the failure to account for the bridge’s height has rendered them impractical for certain routes, raising questions about the planning process behind their introduction.
Local Officials Speak Out
Kallum Taylor, a ward councillor for Holgate in west York, has been vocal about the situation, labeling it as "farcical." He expressed his dismay that the loss of the bus service was not due to financial constraints but rather a simple oversight regarding the buses’ dimensions. Taylor pointed out that this incident is part of a troubling trend of reduced transport options in the area, exacerbated by previous service cuts and a planned closure of Leeman Road.
"It’s farcical that Leeman Road has lost another bus service," Taylor stated. "Cleaner buses are great, but it seems like, in the excitement this has caused those involved, this community has again been overlooked. It’s nowhere near good enough."
The Bridge: A Known Hazard
The bridge in question has a height restriction of 12 feet (3.9 meters) and has a history of being problematic for larger vehicles. Taylor recounted a previous incident where a double-decker bus collided with the bridge, resulting in significant damage. He questioned the decision-making process at First Bus, wondering whether they had adequately checked the height of the new buses before ordering them.
"If they did not check, then that is appalling," he remarked. "But if they did check and carried on anyway without getting a replacement bus service, that is still bad."
Community Frustration
The local community has taken to social media to voice their frustrations, with many residents echoing Taylor’s sentiments. One resident pointed out, "This should have been taken into consideration when the buses were ordered. They will have been aware of their height, so either needed to find a lower version or considered using the old ones for the routes concerned." Another succinctly added, "Didn’t they think to measure it before making the buses? How stupid."
First Bus Responds
In response to the backlash, a spokesperson for First York acknowledged the issue and outlined the changes made to mitigate the impact on residents. They mentioned the introduction of a re-route and extension of the 59 service, as well as a new 10L service to help alleviate the disruption caused by the alteration to the number 10 service. However, they admitted that connectivity to Boroughbridge Road has been affected, as the 59 service is now a limited-stop route.
"We are discussing options to resolve the 59 stopping situation with the transport team at City of York Council and expect to provide an update in the coming weeks," the spokesperson stated.
Conclusion
The situation in York serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of thorough planning and consideration in public transport initiatives. While the push for greener transport solutions is commendable, the oversight regarding the height of the new electric buses has left residents feeling neglected and frustrated. As First Bus works to address the issue, the community hopes for a swift resolution that will restore their access to reliable public transport.