Issue - meetings

To consider options for how to meet the transport needs of local communities within the context of reduced budgets, whilst at the same time minimising the impact on protected equality groups particularly older and disabled people.

Consideration was given to a number of options for how best to meet the transport needs of local communities whilst at the same time achieving the reductions set out in the Business Plan for 2012/15.  The proposals being considered would still provide support of £2.4m per year for public transport and also increase the amount spent on demand responsive transport to promote rural accessibility, inclusivity for older and disabled residents, and expand the service into evenings and weekends.

A number of Councillors expressed concern regarding proposals for specific services in the areas they represented; the Portfolio Holder confirmed that representations received from Town and Parish Councils would be given careful consideration

RESOLVED

1.    That the planned investment of £2.4m (gross expenditure) per annum in continuing support for public transport contracts be endorsed.

2.    That the proposal to reduce or withdraw funding subsidies for bus services supported by Cheshire East Council in line with the schedule set out in Appendix 3 of the report, resulting in a reduction in gross expenditure of £750,000 per annum be agreed, in accordance with the timetable shown in Appendix 5 of the report and the budget reallocations shown in paragraph 7.5 of the report. 

3.    That the Transport Manager, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Environmental Services, be authorised to make final adjustments to individual contract decisions and timings in negotiation with bus operators, and to seek to secure the commercial operation of currently-subsidised routes.  

4.    That the formal establishment of a representative forum to engage on matters relating to flexible transport in particular, and older and disabled residents transport needs in general, be agreed.

5.    That approval be given to the reinvestment of an additional £150,000 per annum in the provision of flexible, demand responsive transport, and also that consideration be given to including this allocation in the 2013/14 business planning process as a permanent recurring reinvestment.