HOW the community can step in and replace lost bus services is to be discussed at a meeting.
It has been organised by the Isle of Wight Rural Community Council (RCC) following cuts in services by Southern Vectis and the Isle of Wight Council’s Wightbus due to take effect on Sunday.
The RCC, which has just successfully re-launched its Optio volunteer driver scheme, said it was responding to lots of enquiries about community transport. The meeting will bring interested parties together and offer expert advice from a leading national charity, which supports community transport enterprises.
In West Wight, a feasibility study has already begun to explore a local bus service for Freshwater, Yarmouth and Totland.
The RCC said it had received enquiries from several parish councils wanting advice on how to initiate and fund community transport schemes.
It has invited the director of consultancy at the national Community Transport Association, Bryan Myles, to the Island to share his experiences of working with communities which have faced similar cuts to services and how they have taken positive action to set up community transport initiatives.
• The meeting will take place in the Seminar Room, Quay Arts, Newport on Monday, September 13, at 7pm. Anyone interested in attending can book a place by contacting the RCC on 01983 524058 or e-mail mail@iwrcc.org.uk
Reporter: richardw@iwcpmail.co.uk