An MP has demanded that Stagecoach bosses rethink plans to scrap bus services.

The firm recently launched a two-week consultation, which ended on Monday, over changes to their commercially-operated routes.

It would mean some villages losing their only regular service.

Dover and Deal MP Charlie Elphicke had asked for a longer consultation, which was due to end by June 26, and met the company’s area managing director Philip Norwell last Friday.

Mr Elphicke said: “I am still furious that some people in this area face losing their only regular service. It’s clear the original plans were badly thought through.

“Yet Stagecoach have now promised to rethink scrapping route 15B, which would leave River residents sitting on a bus for an hour-and-a-half just to get to Canterbury.

“They also said they would reconsider changes at Eastry, which would be left with only an hourly service.

“And they pledged to hold talks with Kent County Council about ensuring villages left without any buses continue to get a bus service.

“These promises are all very welcome, but they must result in action. So many people rely on buses to get around and they deserve a decent service.”

The bus routes are planned to change across the district in September.

Stagecoach says that this is meant to reflect passenger usage and the effect of traffic congestion on reliability.

BLOB: For further details visit stagecoachbus.com/serviceupdates or call 03456 002299