Bexley Council is actively working to secure the future of several key bus routes, including the 96, 428, and 492, that were at risk of being cut. Discussions are ongoing with Transport for London (TfL) and Kent County Council to safeguard these vital services.
Councillor Cameron Smith, Cabinet Member for Economic Growth and Infrastructure, confirmed at a recent council meeting that the council is engaged in efforts to protect routes serving essential areas such as Darent Valley Hospital and Bluewater Shopping Centre. The 96 bus route alone is used by approximately 500 people daily to travel to the Darent Valley, whether for visiting family and friends or for medical appointments. Councillor Smith highlighted the potential consequences of cuts, noting the significant parking issues at Darent Valley Hospital, where people are getting off on the road in order to access essential hospital services.
Councillor Smith acknowledged the importance of these services and stated that the council is collaborating with TfL and Kent County Council to ensure their continuation. He expressed concerns about the lack of clear communication from TfL and Kent County Council regarding the potential service reductions, noting that the council had to learn about the risks through other channels.
These bus routes were initially considered for cuts due to a meeting in Dartford Borough Council, which put the 96 and potentially other bus routes calling out Dartford and Darren Valley
at risk. A significant factor contributing to this was Kent County Council's decision to increase charges for the Fastrack network. TfL will assess the viability of these routes following this increase.
I think this has been terribly communicated,
Councillor Smith stated. I think we know something's gone wrong when both Reform and Labour politicians have claimed to have saved something that should never have been put at risk.
Councillor Smith has taken proactive steps to advocate for the bus routes, writing to both the leader of Kent County Council and the Deputy Mayor for Transport, Seb Dance, to outline, once again, the importance of this bus route serving Darren Valley and the Blue Water Shopping Centre to protect it from cuts.
He emphasised the routes' significance not only for Bluewater, which is important for commuters, but also for the Darren Valley connection.
While the current information suggests the routes are safe until 2030, this is due to a break clause in the existing contract. Councillor Smith cautioned that When there is a firm contract end date, TfL will need to consider its options.
He urged for clear conversations with Transport for London so that we don't end up in a situation in a few years' time where out of the blue they come out of a proposal to terminate those services due to costs, due to the mismanagement of Transport for London and its finances and the heavy subsidies that buses entail, that we suddenly see, out of the blue, that service cut and a consultation with no prior conversations with us.
The financial implications for TfL and Kent County Council, including the increased charges for the Fastrack network and the general mismanagement of Transport for London and its finances and the heavy subsidies that buses entail,
are understood to be driving these potential service reductions.
