Residents encouraged to get involved with the bus debate

Chiswick residents will be given the opportunity to have their say on what should happen with the 94 bus terminus at Acton Green.

Although those living and trading close to the terminus will be most affected by any changes implemented, Acton Green Residents' Association (AGRA), which has been operating for more than 20 years, along with local councillors want to ensure that everyone has a chance to voice their opinions.

The Highways Department, who are now leading on the design and consultation on the scheme, expect full consultation to take place in November and are currently developing the material.

The debate continued at the recent Southfield Ward Forum Meeting. Ealing Council's preferred option of reversing the current one-way system at a cost of around £75,000 was not popular with everyone including the spokeswoman for Le Vacherin who said that the plan would damage their business.

The alternative locations for the bus stand also came into question as some were identified by speakers with local knowledge as being on private land, being too small to accommodate more than one bus at a time and with no room to turn a vehicle as large as a bus.

A spokesperson for bus company Transdev said, "We have been working with TfL to ensure that there is a minimum of disruption at this terminus point and have instigated a large number of additional controls. These include the regular deployment of a service controller at the stand for much of the day and the sending of repeated bulletins to remind staff of their responsibilities whilst waiting at this location.

"New vehicle technology fitted to vehicles operating the 94 route also monitors and automatically controls excessive idling of buses, whilst the latest design of 'green' buses are shortly to be delivered for use on the route. These measures are designed to ensure that we keep inconvenience to local people to a minimum whilst maintaining this important service to the area."

October 11, 2010