Concerned residents presented a petition to Tynwald, regarding the cancellation of the Number 28 bus service to Cregneash and the Sound.
The petition, signed by over 916 individuals, highlights the significant impact this decision has on the community and tourism.
The Number 28 bus route has been a vital link for residents of Cregneash and the Sound, providing essential transportation for access to services, and connectivity to other parts of the island.
Additionally, this route has been crucial for tourists visiting these picturesque and historically significant locations, contributing to the local economy.
Bus Service Petition
- Community Impact: The cancellation of the Number 28 bus service has left many residents without reliable transportation, affecting their ability to commute to work, attend school, and access essential services.
- Tourism and Economy: Cregneash and the Sound are popular tourist destinations known for their natural beauty and cultural heritage. The lack of public transportation options could lead to a decline in visitor numbers, adversely affecting local businesses and the economy.
- Accessibility: The petition emphasizes the need for accessible public transportation for all, including the elderly and those with disabilities, who may find alternative modes of transport challenging.
Petitioner Christa Viohl said: “That Tynwald call upon the Department of Infrastructure to install an adequate regular public transport service from Port Erin and Port St. Mary to Cregneash and The Sound for both residents and tourists for an affordable fee, especially for people with a reduced budget.
“We also pray that Tynwald should accept that a weekday service is equally important to a weekend service if not more, especially for the Island’s visitors, and that such a service should be combined with the arrival and departure of the steam trains, preferably in Port Erin.”
She added: “There have been intense efforts of various parties to discuss the issue with Bus Vannin. Still, no progress to reinstate the service could be made. That is why I have been collecting signatures for this petition.
“We did have over 2,000 signatures, but not all of them met the Tynwald rules. I still believe that this is a big number and that it deserves serious consideration for reinstatement of the service.
“I’d like to thank those who have been meeting to discuss alternative ways forward. We hope Tynwald will listen to our concerns and work towards a solution that benefits everyone.”
Petition Backed by Members
The petition was backed by Rushen Heritage Trust, whose Vice Chair is Juan Watterson SHK.
He said: “We received regular complaints throughout the summer at the Rushen Heritage Centre in Bridson Street, Port Erin that Cregneash and the Sound were no longer accessible by public transport.
“They are very important historically, culturally as well as offering some of the finest sea views and places to see basking sharks, seals and dolphins, as well as our rich flora.”
Newly appointed DOI Minister, Dr Michelle Haywood added, “During my brief time in post, I have been confronted with a lot of challenges to face in the Department. However, a high quality reliable bus service that goes where people want, when they want to go at an affordable price is high on my list of issues.”
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