The temporary stops located at the London Road junction were chosen as they are fully accessible and provide step-free access. Although they are further from Hicks Road, they remain only 0.7 miles from the furthest High Street stop, which remain within the 1-mile guidance for temporary arrangements. Both stops are situated on a paved pathway, offering passengers a safe, stable waiting area rather than a grass verge which may become slippery or muddy in adverse weather.
A continuous, level pathway links all existing bus stops to these temporary locations, with accessible crossing points throughout the route. The area around the temporary stops is clear and unobstructed, ensuring good visibility for bus drivers and making it easy for them to see waiting passengers.
However, following feedback, the team have arranged for the installation of two additional temporary stops on the main road at the junction with Hicks Road (please see attached document with the stop locations). While these will be closer to the High Street, there are several considerations we wish to highlight.
For the south‑eastbound stop, step‑free access is not available. Passengers would be required to use the footbridge, involving an up‑and‑over route that is not suitable for those with mobility difficulties or anyone who relies on step‑free access. Additionally, there is no footway on the south‑east side where the stop would need to be positioned, meaning it would have to be placed on a grass verge. This presents potential safety concerns, particularly in poor weather when the surface may become slippery.
On the north‑west side, while the stop can be placed on the grass verge just beyond the entrance to the garages/industrial site, the surrounding environment includes poles, posts, signage, low‑hanging trees, and an electrical box. These obstructions may reduce visibility for bus drivers and increase the risk of passengers being missed unless they make themselves clearly visible and actively hail the bus.
Passengers should be encouraged to remain vigilant and mindful of their surroundings when using any of the temporary stops. We have advised the bus operators that they should be looking out for both sets of temporary stops moving forward.