CHESHIRE East Council has responded to the complaints about the changed bus service in Middlewich by stating they are investigating the problems.

 

The 42 service from Crewe to Congleton via Middlewich has come under criticism from residents after the Borough Council changed its service provider from D&G who had run the service for 10 years, to GHA.

 

Residents had complained that since the changeover, the buses were always either late or did not arrive, and did not stick to the route.

 

Cheshire East Council has said they are investigating the complaints and described the issues as ‘teething problems’.

 

A spokesperson for Cheshire East Council said: “Due to our previous five-year contract coming to its natural end, we followed our normal procurement rules and put out to tender the contract for the 42 service.

 

“Although D&G had the opportunity to tender for this contract again they were not the successful operator and the contract was awarded to GHA.

 

“We are currently investigating some complaints which have been reported to us and liaising with GHA to make sure a smoother operation is delivered once these initial teething problems are sorted out.”

 

GHA also responded by blaming teething problems for the amount of complaints received and say progress is being made.

 

Stephen Bryce, general manager at GHA, said: “GHA Coaches operate service 42 under contract to Cheshire East Council and we started operating the route from 27th October.

 

“Although we were aware of some teething problems during the first week I believe operations have now calmed down and in the second week we only received one complaint.

 

“There have been several road works along the route which have caused diversions and this will add to the passenger perception that we are going the wrong way.

 

“Our company has recently ordered 3 brand new buses for the 42 service which will low floor access, the latest engine emission limits, leather seats, laminate flooring and free Wi-Fi for passengers, these vehicles form part of a larger order costing £1.7M for 13 brand new vehicles for services within Cheshire East.”