Part of a bus route shut off after drivers were targeted with catapults and shot at with air rifles could return to operation before Christmas.

Arriva’s 190 service from Chatham Maritime has not stopped in Dering Way, Gravesend, for more than a month after close to 200 drivers signed a petition refusing to go down there.

Police have been working with the operator and local councillors to tackle the issue, and it is hoped it will be safe to reopen the bus stop for the festive season.

More than 60 people attended a meeting of residents affected by the disruption at Chalk Village Hall last week, including representatives from Gravesham council’s community support unit, police and Arriva.

Ward councillor Lyn Milner (Lab) organised the meeting after meeting investigating officers at North Kent Police Station in Thames Way, Northfleet, on Wednesday November 3.

Cllr Milner said: “The meeting was a success and there were some very good questions asked. Quite a few people there had walking aids and were particularly concerned.

“The bus stop has been there since I campaigned to get it there six years ago and is essential. We can’t have people suffering as they are without it.

“I don’t drive so I know how important public transport is. There has been a lack of communication between Arriva and police, but everyone is keen to work together to get the outcome that we want.

“I will continue to campaign to have the bus reinstated – when it is safe to do so.”

"There has been a lack of communication between Arriva and police, but everyone is keen to work together to get the outcome that we want" Cllr Lyn Milner

The 190 service to Gravesend stopped in Dering Way seven days a week, and was the most convenient way for people to get into the town centre. They now face a 10-minute walk to get to the nearest available stop.

Many of those who regularly caught the bus were elderly people.

Kent County Council Gravesham East councillor Diane Marsh (Con) also attended the meeting and said the impending arrival of a new housing estate just up the road from the stop meant it was needed “more than ever”.

She said: “Hopefully, the bus service should get back on track before Christmas.

“It was an excellent meeting, with people able to have a voice over what has turned out to be a valuable service that everyone there felt very passionately about losing.”

The drivers had been supported in their refusal to drive down Dering Way by union Unite.

Unite regional manager Dave Weeks added: “Our members have signed a 174-strong petition relating to these attacks and have not driven down that route since October 29 because of concerns for safety.

“They are being supported by the firm’s management in this stand. This is clearly a matter for the police.”

Fifteen incidents have been reported to Arriva by drivers, and the operator is seeking assurances from police before bringing the stop back into use.

Marketing manager Craig Taylor said: “We would like to see the 190 service reinstated to Dering Way, but not at the expense of passenger and driver safety.

“Our Gillingham depot is working with the police and council to discuss what measures can be put in place to resolve the issues. We hope to reopen the bus stop in the near future.”

Police said: “We are continuing to work with the local council and bus operator to address concerns about anti-social behaviour in Dering Way, Gravesend.

“These included incidents in which rope had been tied across the road by young people in an apparent attempt to frustrate motorists.

“No further incidents have been reported since officers spoke to the parents of those believed to have been responsible.

“Anyone who experiences anti-social behaviour is urged to report it as soon as possible by calling 101.”