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Bus meeting on Thanet routes under threat to be held in Broadstairs

Bus users alarmed by proposed cuts to subsidised bus routes are being urged to attend a public conference on the matter.

In April, a meeting for those who use the 56 route was packed out, meaning many were left disappointed after being turned away.

The latest gathering - to be held on August 30 - will allow those concerned to put their questions to Mike Whiting, cabinet member at Kent County Council, who is overseeing the review.

The 56 bus is often packed (3537450)
The 56 bus is often packed (3537450)

It is open to anyone - but it is particularly aimed at those who use the three routes under threat in Thanet, which are the 39, 42 and 56.

KCC's proposal for cuts to subsided bus services in Thanet will be discussed.

It comes as part of the authority's consultation on which rural bus services should keep running and which it should support with subsidies.

Labour's Cllr Jenny Matterface, who organised the meeting along with Cllr Barry Lewis, says the routes are "vital for many", including the elderly and disabled.

"The routes under threat of losing their subsidies are vital for many in Thanet, linking homes with GP surgeries, QEQM, shopping areas, churches, railway stations and friends," she said.

"Many elderly along with the disabled and younger residents depend on these routes for day-to-day activities, to get to work and school.

"Without a bus they would lose out on social engagement and the impact on adult social care for the elderly would be considerable.

"I would ask all bus users who rely on any of the three routes to come along on August 30 and let Mike Whiting know how strongly you feel about the possible loss or an amended route that wouldn't serve their community.

"Our first meeting had 300 attendees in a hall that only accommodated 100. This time we have made sure we have enough seats."

The meeting, chaired by Conservative KCC councillor for Broadstairs Ros Binks, will take place at 2.30pm in the GAP auditorium in Queen's Road, Broadstairs.

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