A NEW company has come forward to run a number of key Middlesbrough bus routes after the previous operator announced it was to close.
Croft Coach Travel is set to take on Service 18/19 runs from Middlesbrough and the James Cook University Hospital through to Hemlington and Stainton.
The Eaglescliffe-based company has also agreed to take over the running of the early morning Monday to Friday bus services 605/606/607 which are predominantly used by people accessing employment.
The development follows the announcement that Leven Valley Coaches was to close due to factors including rising insurance premiums, the tough economic climate and the end of public subsidies.
Under the new arrangements the 18/19 service will run at a slightly lesser frequency – every hour and a half compared with hourly – between the same hours of operation (7am – 6pm) from Saturday (March 21), meaning there will be no break in service.
Timetabled services for routes 605/606/607 will remain the same.
The only service ceasing to operate is the Sunday 603/604 early morning service from Middlesbrough to Hemlington and Coulby Newham which was no longer viable due to low passenger numbers.
Croft Coach Travel Director James Wright said: “I am really pleased that Croft Coach Travel have been able to continue Service 605/606/607 which are very early morning bus services within Middlesbrough.
“Passengers using these services are predominantly travelling to places of employment and I am happy that we are able to continue to provide transport to employment hubs.
“Continuing Service 18 will provide the community with a vital east-west link across Middlesbrough.
“Many elderly people use this service in accessing health services at James Cook University Hospital and Croft Coach Travel are passionate about providing public transport which meets the needs of the community.”
Councillor Charlie Rooney, Middlesbrough Council’s Executive Member for Regeneration, said: “I’m grateful to Croft Coach Travel and all those involved in the negotiations for their efforts to save these routes.
“While we understand the pressures faced by the previous operator, we also know how important these services are to bus users, especially those who rely on them for travel to and from work.
“I hope the travelling public will use and support these important services so they can continue to grow and become sustainable in the future.”