PEOPLE in Ludlow and south Shropshire have a month to have a say on future bus services.

People are being invited to have their say about Shropshire Council’s new Bus Strategy 2017-2021.

A consultation into the draft strategy begins runs until Monday, February 13.

Public transport provides access to essential services, especially for those more vulnerable and living in rural areas.

Shropshire Council says it is facing considerable challenges and needs to set a strategy which ensures available budgets are spent in line with clearly defined local bus priorities.

Now Shropshire Council is asking for people’s views on a new bus strategy. This proposes a number of objectives and priorities which will determine how budgets are allocated across countywide services, and provide a robust process for decision making.

“The council fully appreciates the vital function that local bus services play within the lives of many Shropshire residents, and in supporting the economy of the county,” said Simon Jones, Shropshire Council’s cabinet member for highways and transport.

“Whether these services be provided on a fully commercial, or on a contracted and council-subsidised basis, it is vital that the bus strategy recognises the opportunities and also the challenges that exist at this time.

"The new bus strategy is intended to ensure that Shropshire’s bus network remains relevant to people's transport needs, and can be provided within the council’s available budgets.

“I would urge all bus users and stakeholders to respond to this bus strategy consultation, in order to ensure that the final strategy best reflects the needs of Shropshire’s communities and bus users.”

The proposed strategy can be viewed at http://new.shropshire.gov.uk/get-involved/ where there is also a link to an online survey and response form.

Alternatively, a paper copy of the strategy and consultation questionnaire can be obtained by contacting Mouchel Ltd on 01743 276300.