The London Borough of Hammersmith & Fulham (H&F) has thrown its weight behind residents fighting against Transport for London's (TfL) proposed cuts to bus services across the capital. Council leaders argue that such reductions would wreak havoc on daily commutes, access to essential services and local businesses.
The council is urging TfL to reconsider plans that could see several routes in the borough significantly altered or reduced, affecting older residents, those with disabilities, and individuals on lower incomes who rely on affordable public transport. Bus services are a lifeline for many in H&F, particularly those mentioned above, who would face longer waiting times, increased journey times, and reduced accessibility to key areas like hospitals, schools, and employment centres.
The council's concerns stretch beyond individual inconvenience, warning that the cuts could lead to increased traffic congestion and air pollution as more people use private vehicles. This would undermine the borough's efforts to promote sustainable transport and improve local air quality, while also putting significant pressure on local businesses dependent on a reliable public transport network.
TfL's proposals stem from ongoing financial challenges, largely exacerbated by the pandemic-induced drop in passenger numbers and subsequent funding negotiations with the government. While TfL argues that services need to be made more efficient and financially sustainable, H&F is countering that long-term social and economic costs of these cuts would outweigh any immediate savings.
The council has been actively engaging its residents on the proposed changes, using this feedback to bolster its case against the cuts. It's advocating for a more integrated and sustainable approach to public transport planning that prioritises community needs and supports urban development, rather than undermining it through service reductions.