Routes suffer as axe falls on bus services

The reduction is part of a service re-design by Nottinghamshire County Council which came into force this month.

The Stagecoach-operated 18 bus has had its 7.02am service from Mansfield’s Quarry area removed, while the last returning bus from the town’s bus station leaves at 5.45pm.

This means residents will have to rely on more widely used routes on nearby Southwell Road West and Nottingham Road for the same service.

Berry Hill resident Shane O’Neill (31) said: “I used to catch the number 18 from the Quarry to Mansfield early morning and then the last bus from Mansfield at 6.10pm.

“Now I am arriving late for work and have no choice but to get a car to avoid future lateness and for my own safety as darker nights will soon return.

“Well done Nottinghamshire County Council - another person off public transport and another car on the road.”

A spokesman for Nottinghamsire County Council said overall the network would provide better value and all routes would ensure maximum levels of service.

More widely used routes had to be prioritised in order to ensure remote areas kept their services.

He added: “There is another service on Southwell Road West which departs every half hour and a frequent service on Nottingham Road.”